Former Tottenham boss Glenn Hoddle says Michael Dawson deserves to make England's World Cup squad.

The former Nottingham Forest centre-half refuses to give up on gatecrashing England's 23-man party for South Africa this summer despite not yet registering his first cap at senior international level.

Hoddle said: "He's up there with all the best centre-halves at the moment. He's been so consistent this season.

"Had Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King remained fit he probably wouldn't have got his chance. It shows how you can be rewarded if you keep plugging away.

"It would be really nice for the lad if he went to South Africa. I trust him. He's good on the ball and a strong crossfield passer which opens play up.

"Most of all he's been solid at the back. It was a really good defensive performance by Spurs against Arsenal and I can see why they have conceded so few goals at home."