Collins bemused by Noble’s England omission

James Collins feels his West Ham team-mate Mark Noble is long overdue international recognition with England.

The Hammers ace has notched seven goals and created nine more for Slaven Bilic’s team during an impressive season.

His manager has already campaigned for Noble to receive a call-up from Roy Hodgson into the England set-up to no avail and now veteran central defender Collins has added his voice to Noble’s camp.

“I can’t understand why he hasn’t had a chance,” Collins told Sky Sports. “I’ve played with him for nearly 10 years and he’s top drawer.

“If he gets goals in his game, like he has done recently, then he deserves a crack. I don’t think there are too many midfielders that do a better job than him.”

Noble, 28, was capped repeatedly by his country as he came up through the ranks all the way to Under–21s but he has never received a senior cap.

England have pre-tournament games against Turkey, Australia and Portugal before Euro 2016, should Hodgson choose to have a look at Noble close up.

Collins, who could come up against Noble with Wales this summer should he make the England squad, says it is impossible not to be impressed with what his West Ham team-mate shows in training.

“He’s got everything on the pitch, and he’s great around the training ground. His passing is exceptional and he’s getting forward more now,” he added.

“I don’t think people realise how good a player he is until you play with him. He trains better than anyone I’ve ever played with, and he trains how he plays.”

England are 9.00 to win Euro 2016 while Wales can be backed at 67.00 to win the tournament.