Rafa Benitez believes Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles is more than capable of being selected for England.
Rafa Benitez has urged Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles to keep his feet on the ground and focus on improving himself as a player amid a potential England call-up.
The 23-year-old has been in exceptional form so far this season, scoring two goals in just nine games against Swansea and Stoke and helping Benitez’s side keep four clean sheets.
The former Nottingham Forest centre-back was watched by England boss Gareth Southgate on Saturday, as the Toon earned a late 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
Gareth Southgate at St. James’ Park on Saturday.
However, when asked about whether Lascelles warranted a place among Southgate’s elite, Benitez unequivocally told the Chronicle that his defender should be focusing on improving as a footballer rather than playing for England.
“If I was him now I wouldn’t be worried about that too much,” Benitez said. “I would be more worried about improving every week and try to be a little bit better each week. After that, things can happen.
“He has the potential, and he is a young English centre-back – there aren’t too many. He knows he has to improve. The way to do it is to train well and keep asking questions. He has to improve in every single exercise.”
England do not have an abundance of centre-backs available to them, with the likes of Harry Maguire, John Stones, Phil Jones, Gary Cahill, Chris Smalling and Michael Keane ahead of Lascelles.
Gary Cahill is one of England’s most experienced players.
However, Lascelles could be given a chance next month as England face Germany on November 10 before playing host to Brazil just four days later.
Newcastle’s number six will need to continue to impress if he is to gain a place in Southgate’s Three Lions squad, with the Toon next in action against Burnley on Monday night.
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