With Harry Kane unavailable for the upcoming World Cup 2018 qualifiers against Malta and Slovenia, there appears a space in the squad for a striker and Mazzarri believes Deeney deserves a shot.
Advertisement
Mazzarri, who has not yet been contacted by the FA to discuss Deeney, said: “I will be proud and really happy if Deeney gets into the national team”.
“He has improved physically and he is much fitter now. He’s a strong striker and just needs to look after his fitness and of course he’s worldwide level”.
Italian Mazzarri, speaking through an interpreter ahead of his side’s Monday night clash at Burnley, added: “I respect the England manager and his decision, and I am biased as he is one of my players”.
“I have always told them how they can be effective but I have always said that it is the team that makes them”.
The Hornets have won their last two matches and are the 13/8 favourites with Ladbrokes for three points at Turf Moor. “It’s a different type of game and not necessarily an easier game”. It’s a lot of water under the bridge and they’ve gone on to become a Premier League club so their model of working has worked for them.
Burnley have only beaten Liverpool this season and are 15/8 (William Hill) to win the match.
Advertisement
Big Sam pays little heed to reputations and will give lesser known form players a chance – as he proved by selecting West Ham’s Michail Antonio in Slovakia. We have big respect for Burnley and the way they play. “It’s a hard away game and not an easy away match”.
