Norwich City boss Chris Hughton believes John Ruddy can push to become England's No1.
With Joe Hart struggling at Manchester City, Hughton believes it opens the international door for Ruddy.
"Any player that goes on international duty is there on merit and to challenge and to play," Hughton.
"If I look at the progress he has made over the last few seasons he has the capabilities to really push for a place.
"It's early in the season but if I look at the reaction from a disappointing season for him last season, at least the last two thirds of the season with the injury, he has made a full recovery from that and at the moment is back to where he was before the injury.
"I think he has done well and has put himself in position to put pressure on the position. And that's how it should be. Anyone who is involved in an international squad should be there on merit and feel they can put real competition on that position.
"He's a big personality, a big frame, and his performances for us over the last few seasons have very much warranted him being in that international squad."
