Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez will continue to champion Jonjo Shelvey for an England recall.

Shelvey is producing some of the best form of his career this season.

When asked specifically about Shelvey's current form, Benitez sent out a message to England coach Gareth Southgate and commented: “If they need to talk to me I can do it. I will give my opinion.

“I think they know Jonjo really well but he is now more mature and he is improving so if they need my opinion I will give it. It has to be positive.

“He (Shelvey) is doing well and hopefully he can do well until the end. Maybe he will be there."