Alan Shearer has said that Southampton striker Rickie Lambert should be called up to the England squad for this summer's World Cup.

The 32-year-old has scored 12 goals in the Premier League for the Saints this season, and Shearer believes that his expertise from set piece situations would be a huge boost for the Three Lions.

"One of the reasons I would take Rickie Lambert is for that eventuality - how important have penalties been for England at major tournaments in the last 25 years?" Shearer is quoted as saying by the Daily Mail. "Lambert's record from penalties for Southampton is amazing, but I would take him to Brazil on merit for his overall contribution.

"To have him on your team, knowing that if it goes to a shoot-out he is a virtual banker, is a great feeling for a coach.

"In open play, if we are struggling to score, he is a great option to have - he came on and scored with his first touch in international football against Scotland at Wembley, and that is a decent knack to have."

Lambert has scored twice for England in his four previous appearances.