Stuart Pearce may have his reasons but he must be about the only person in the country to believe that Jonjo Shelvey should not have the place in the England squad that he was given last night by manager Roy Hodgson.

Hodgson called up Shelvey to the squad for the qualifiers against both San Marino and Switzerland as a reward not just for his excellent form at the start of this season but also since the turn of the year when he was given some very public criticism by Garry Monk.

Since that point in time Shelvey has turned himself and his game around and went into yesterday's 2-1 win over Manchester United as the most creative English player so far this season.

But Pearce, who managed Shelvey during his time with the England Under-21s, does not believe that he should have got a call up as he didn't play when he should for Pearce's side.

Speaking on Sky Sports News, Pearce said "The more times he plays, the more experience he gets and the older he gets the better he will be as a player.

"The only disappointing aspect that I have had with him is I don't think he has been forthcoming playing for the Under-21s when he should have done but he is fortunate enough that Roy does not bear any malice and has put him in the seniors."

Asked whether he agreed with that decision Pearce added "I don't think that should be the way. If you make a statement that you don't want to play for one of the junior side that should impinge on whether you get the opportunity to play for the seniors."

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