Stoke City manager Mark Hughes claims that defender Ryan Shawcross may have to start performing for club before thinking about international action under Roy Hodgson.

Shawcross made his debut for England three years ago, but his international appearances have been restricted despite his impressive performances at club level. He does not appear to have quite convinced the manager Roy Hodgson especially in the face of competition that includes players like Chris Smalling and Gary Cahill. These are players representing top clubs and Shawcross will find it difficult to get into the England team right now according to Hughes.

The impressive performances of Shawcross cannot be more aptly demonstrated by the fact that the club are chasing a fourth consecutive clean sheet when they take Sunderland this weekend. Stoke City have been unable to make huge inroads into the league table largely because of their troubles upfront. The club has averaged less than a goal per game. This is significantly lower than several teams around them. However, they have also conceded less than a goal per game. This is actually one of the better records in the Premier League with only the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham, and Manchester United being capable of a better record.

Hughes says that Shawcross should continue with these performances in order to have any hope of making it to the Euro 2016.”I know he’s still got ambitions to be a part of the England squad.But Roy has stuck with players who’ve gone through the qualifying campaign (for Euro 2016) and no doubt feels a loyalty towards them.So Ryan may have to wait for circumstances to change and for the moment his way into the team appears to be blocked.You can understand at this late stage, just prior to the Championships, there won’t be too many surprises,” said Hughes.