West Ham loanee Craig Dawson deserves a call-up to England ahead of the Euros in a view entertained on talkSPORT – with just one other English centre-back named as a superior choice.
talkSPORT’s Sports Bar show entertained the prospect from one caller who tipped the Hammers man for a call-up, claiming only John Stones of Manchester City was having a better season right now.
Former England international Gary Lineker even went so far as to compare Dawson to Real Madrid stalwart Sergio Ramos.
West Ham boss David Moyes claimed that the defensive bulwark was ‘worthy’ of a permanent deal in an indication of Moyes’ desire to retain his services – but a deal might not be the only reward set to come Dawson’s way.
Speaking after the match, an ecstatic Moyes said:
“We’re not there yet with a permanent deal but his performances, his attitude and determination are worthy of that anyway.
“We brought him in and it took him a while to get starts but now he’s come in, his experience has been really important to us and he has been adding goals as well.”
Dawson exemplified both his offensive and defensive capacities by notching a crucial goal against Leeds as well as clearing a late deflected shot off the line to ensure the Irons’ clean sheet was preserved.
The talkSPORT caller pounced on Dawson’s exploits to justify a call-up:
“I said this and your producer sounded a bit shocked to be honest, and I think you might be as well… Dawson for the Euros!
“Is there a more in-form centre-back, other than John Stones, than Dawson right now? Give me one?”
Forever West Ham Verdict
Competing with England regulars such as Harry Maguire and Michael Keane is certainly a tall order, but the Leeds victory exemplified the commendable attributes that Dawson can bring to Gareth Southgate’s side.
West Ham will be hoping for more of the same from an increasingly crucial figure at West Ham.
