Newcastle United midfielder Jonjo Shelvey is being backed by manager Rafa Benitez for an England recall.

Benitez insists his midfielder offers Three Lions counterpart Gareth Southgate a unique creative option.

He said: “Shelvey has quality, he has the vision, he can make these passes that strikers like behind the defenders. In a team, a squad, I don't see many of this kind of player.

“Why England? He has the potential to play there. When you have a squad with midfielders, one like Jonjo is a different option.

“I am not saying he should play every game, but he offers something different. I will say again — for me he is a key player, because he plays in a different way. Does that mean he is perfect? No, but he is a good player.

“It is Southgate's decision. I do not need to push anyone. If he was asking me about Shelvey, I would say yes."