Stoke City boss Tony Pulis praised England's senior players for the way they welcomed Ryan Shawcross this week.

The 22-year-old centre-back found himself at the centre of a storm after his leg-breaking challenge on Arsenal teenager Aaron Ramsey in last weekend's defeat at the Britannia Stadium.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger described the tackle as "unacceptable" but Shawcross has been stoutly defended by Pulis and, also, a host of England's senior stars after gaining his first call up to Fabio Capello's squad this week.

"Ryan's been away and he's had a fantastic couple of days with England," said Pulis. "I've made sure I've spoken to him every day and he has been fine and the players have been fantastic.

"Steven Gerrard, apparently, has been exceptional and as the captain of the team has really looked after him. People like Wayne Rooney and David Beckham have been brilliant and I think Shawcross will be the first to say how much help he's had from the players.

"Beckham has been very good with him, like they all have. It's the first time he has been called up for England and I think they do it with most of the lads. They are human beings and they know he is new to the squad, irrespective of what happened on Saturday, and that he will need some help."