Slaven Bilic says he is proud of West Ham duo Aaron Cresswell and Joe Hart being called up for England’s World Cup qualifiers at the start of September, but insists it is no surprise the pair were given the nod.
Both Hart and Cresswell have been named in Gareth Southgate’s 28-man-squad to take on both Malta and Slovakia early next month.
The former of the pair, Hart, has made on 70 appearances for the Three Lions, while Cresswell is in line to earn only his third England cap should he play a part in the vital qualifying fixtures.
Hammers boss Bilic says he is pleased to see the duo called up, especially Cresswell who is beginning to establish himself as a regular member of Gareth Southgate’s squad.
“It’s not a surprise anymore,” he said. “He is becoming a regular and there’s continuity and it’s great for him and us. We are proud we have a couple of players in England’s squad. Cress deserves it. He is very consistent.
“He had his ups and downs last season because of the injury he got in pre-season but he is a great player, a great pro, has got a great left-foot and he’s a very important age for England and he’s a player with a bright future. He’s a top player.”
England first travel to Malta on September 1st before welcoming Slovakia to Wembley three days later on September 4th.
