Pochettino backs Lallana for World Cup spot

Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino has backed Adam Lallana to secure a FIFA World Cup place with England if he maintains his current form.

Lallana has been included in Roy Hodgson’s last two squads and his club head coach is convinced the midfielder can earn a place in England’s 23-man group for Brazil.

Pochettino believes Lallana, who has managed eight goals this season, could be a useful asset for England and feels Southampton would benefit from such recognition.

“Adam is a top player, a wonderful player in English football,” said Pochettino at a press conference on Thursday. “I consider him to be a great player, everyone can see he is a special talent.

“I’d love for him to be part of the England side for the World Cup.

“Of course we’d like to see him and other players in the England squad – individually for them it would be perfect, from our point of view (it would) be amazing.”

Victor Wanyama, recently back from a near two-month absence, could be available for this weekend’s visit of Stoke City after overcoming a knock.

Pochettino has challenged Jack Cork, another of the club’s midfielders, to welcome the competition for a place.

“I think he (Cork) can play at any given moment,” added the Southampton boss. “It is good two to have two players for (the) same spot.

“It makes competition – that competition will make them better; it is a very positive thing (that) we have two good players for the same position.”