England boss Gareth Southgate has explained his thinking in recalling certain players to the national team.

The likes of Jesse Lingard, Luke Shaw and John Stones are back in the Three Lions fold after recent absences.

Shaw has been in excellent form all season, while Lingard has thrived since going to West Ham United on loan in January.

Stones is another who is having a remarkable season at the heart of the Manchester City defence.

"There has never been any question in my mind about the quality of all three players. All have had difficulties mainly because of injury," the Three Lions boss told reporters.

"Jesse, of the three, is a bit more fortunate to be in. Luke and John have performed over a period of time. We have got injuries in that area that have opened up an opportunity for Jesse.

"I have to say that his performances for West Ham have been excellent. He has four goals in six games. We know he can perform at the level.

"We know he has been a really good member of our squad, both in terms of his general link up play and he has scored goals as well.

"There is no doubting quality. Ideally, you say you need to do it for a little bit longer. But that's not been the option this time around.

"We lost the likes of Jack Grealish, Jadon Sancho, Harvey Barnes and James Maddison. There is a space there and we trust Jesse and think he can play a big part in the next few games."