Ex-England Boss Sam Allardyce Gives His Verdict on Gareth Southgate's Three Lions Squad Choices

Sam Allardyce has offered his opinions on Gareth Southgate’s latest England squad – revealing that he was ‘delighted’ to see Jermain Defoe recalled but admitted disappointment with Andros Townsend’s snub.

The Crystal Palace boss managed Defoe last season with Sunderland who scored an impressive 14 goals for the struggling Black Cats. And Allardyce backs the veteran forward to do the job for England in attack while Harry Kane remains in the treatment room.

“I’m delighted for Jermain Defoe,’ Allardyce said on ?Sky Sports. “If you want goals the man gets you goals at any level. He’s such a good professional in terms of how he’s looked after himself over the years and he can still play at the highest level.

“There aren’t many England players to choose from in the Premier League to start with. English players are becoming a rarity to select from. Harry Kane is injured and he thinks that Defoe will be the answer to fill in for Kane.

“I considered Defoe when I was with England. He scored all the goals in this year in a struggling side he’s in double figures already. If you want goals Jermain Defoe will get you goals.

“And he’s fit enough to play. It doesn’t matter about age. It’s a bit like the old saying, if you’re good enough you’re old enough. Well if you’re still fit enough you’re still good enough at 34.”

The shock Defoe call-up wasn’t the biggest surprise for Big Sam as he was disappointed to hear that his player Andros Townsend did not make the cut to play a friendly against Germany and a World Cup qualifier with Lithuania next week.

“I’m disappointed Andros missed out because I think he’s playing the best football he’s played since he’s been at Palace,” Allardyce said.

“Especially the special goal he scored against West Bromwich Albion showed he’s getting back to the form the made him an England regular a few years ago.”