Former England international Gary Lineker has accused Premier League managers of hindering the international careers of young players.

Arsene Wenger and Roberto Martinez are among those who have voiced concerns about youngsters being left fatigued if they take part in tournaments during the summer months, such as next year's Under-21 European Championship.

However, Lineker has hit back at these suggestions, insisting that managers should stand by their players and allow them to feature as often as possible for their country.

"It won't happen, but I wish PL managers would support their young players' international careers, not hinder them," the 53-year-old said on Twitter.

"All our star under 21 players should go to the finals next summer if fit. Wonderful tournament experience. Other countries insist on it. I get managers me, me, me attitude, but wouldn't it be refreshing if, for once, they thought about the good of the national game?"

England Under-21s qualified for Euro 2015 courtesy of a 4-2 aggregate victory over Croatia last week.