Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic has called for teammate Ryan Shawcross to be given a chance in the England squad at this year's World Cup in Brazil.

Roy Hodgson is still searching for his tournament pairing at the back, with the coach recently brushing off the potential return of John Terry to the England setup.

"I've been beating the drum for Ryan for a while," Begovic told the Stoke Sentinel.

"I get to train with him and play with him every week and see what kind of quality player he is. I don't think he would ever let England down.

"It's important to have leaders and he's been our captain for a number of years. It's someone they need to look at and make a decision. There's no doubt you do get overlooked if you're not playing for one of the [title-chasing] clubs.

"I wish he was Bosnian. He's a great player, and I'm sure he will get his international chance soon."

Shawcross has made only one cap for England's senior side, having been part of the team that lost 4-2 to Sweden in November 2012.