Tom Cleverley has poured cold water on suggestions he could be in line for an England call-up, and insists his focus is solely on Watford.
The Hornets midfielder scored the injury-time winner as Watford beat Arsenal 2-1 at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
He has become a key member of Marco Silva’s side and impressed throughout the season, leading some to suggest he could play himself into Three Lions contention for the first time since 2013.
Cleverley, however, is paying little attention to what certain members of the media believe is a growing claim to be included in England boss Gareth Southgate’s plans.
“I am focusing on playing well for Watford at the moment. You guys (the media) are always going to link every English player who is playing well with the national team,” he said.
“It is not a thought in my head at the moment and it is obviously the pinnacle of every professional player’s career.
“I would always be happy to play for my country, but I think it is pretty far off at the moment.”
The 28-year-old has 13 caps to his name, which he values as some of the most significant appearances of his career.
He stopped short of criticising those in the current England set up, which has come under fire for a string of insipid displays, and admitted playing for the Three Lions is a tough task.
“In football you are working to get these achievements and to get these caps,” he said.
“I would never criticise anyone because I have been there and it is hard to play for England. They have got a fantastic squad of players and I think sometimes people are too harsh on them.”
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