Defoe: England snub for Chelsea attacker Sterling is strange

Former Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe says Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling should be in the England squad.

Sterling has been outstanding for Chelsea this season, but ignored by England coach Gareth Southgate.

Defoe said on Channel 4: "Even in previous squads him not being involved (is strange).

"He has been one of England's better players over last few years. On current form not only does he get in the squad, but he starts a game like this. He deserves to be in this squad."

Fellow pundit Joleon Lescott also said: "He's arguably as in form as anyone else.

"It will be a reason that Sterling won't understand. When you're not selected you tend to not understand.

"(But) Southgate knows if he calls upon Sterling in a major tournament then he will step up."