Everton manager David Moyes has insisted that Leon Osman is fully deserving of his recent call-up to the England squad.
The midfielder, who has one previous cap to his name, was included in Roy Hodgson's 23-man party for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.
"I am delighted for him because he has been one of the players who has carried us for a lot of the season, he really has," Moyes told Everton's official website.
"Yes, at times he has dipped under his best like all players will do, but so far this season he has been very good."
England take on San Marino at the Serravalle Stadium on Friday.