Antonio will thrive on the biggest stage

Alan Devonshire believes Michail Antonio will seize his chance with England – after his surprise call-up for the clash against Slovakia.

Antonio claimed he thought it was ‘banter’ when he was told he’d been selected by Sam Allardyce but West Ham legend Devonshire – who graduated from non-league football to win eight England caps – isn’t worried.

“As someone who came through from non-league football to play for England, I am pleased to see Michail follow the same path,” he told West Ham’s official website

“It’s probably a bit like what happened to me in my career in that sometimes the higher up you go in football, you find it a little bit easier, believe it or not. I think he’s one of them and I’m pleased for him.

“To me, as someone who came through non-league football and didn’t become a full-time footballer until I was 20, that’s sad.

“On a positive note, though, Michail has worked hard to get his opportunity to play for England and now I hope he takes it.”

(Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)

Devonshire also believes more clubs should look outside the Football League for talent – believing those further down the pyramid are always worthy of a chance.

“Most teams should take five or six non-league players every season and give them a chance to develop their talent and raise their fitness level in full-time football,” he added.

“At the end of the day, clubs will not lose money on them.”