The West Ham winger was in fine form last season under Slaven Bilic.
West Ham United’s Michail Antonio celebrates scoring their first goal
Speaking to Sky Sports, Stuart Pearce has backed West Ham United star Michail Antonio for an England call up.
With Sam Allardyce taking over the England job this summer, there has been suggestions that some of the players who were previously overlook may get their chance on the international stage.
Antonio was in fine form last season with a series of impressive performances after joining from Nottingham Forest in the summer transfer window.
He was the key man once again on Sunday as he headed home a late winner for the Hammers against Bournemouth in their first game at the London Stadium.
West Ham United’s Michail Antonio scores their first goal
And Pearce believes Antonio could be one of those that could be close to a call up.
“I think Michail Antonio could be close to it [the England squad],” he told Sky Sports.
“He’s done very well at West Ham and Sam will know him well. He’s so dynamic and energetic. If you can play in the Premier League, you can play international football.”
Domzale’s Alvaro Brachi and West Ham’s Michail Antonio in action
It will certainly be interesting to see who Allardyce names in his first England squad.
Including Antonio would not be that surprising a choice, with the current group lacking in proper wingers, as Roy Hodgson preferred number tens such as Adam Lallana.
In that regard, should he pick the West Ham man it may indicate that the Three Lions will be taking a different approach under their new manager.
England manager Sam Allardyce after the press conference
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