Shawcross gives up world cup hope

(GSM) – Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has all but given up hope of making England’s World Cup squad this summer.

England boss Fabio Capello was called Shawcross for the first time to play for England’s friendly game against Egypt in March.

The call-up came at an opportune moment for the 22-year-old centre-half as it came on the same day that he had been involved in a tackle which broke the leg of Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey.

Shawcross returned to club action under a cloud and was immediately sidelined with an ankle problem which forced him to miss 10 games before Saturday’s goalless draw with Everton.

But with the World Cup now just six weeks away, Shawcross doesn’t believe he has done enough to make the final 23-man squad.

“It has faded a bit as I have been out so long. You can never say never but my main aim is to play well for Stoke first of all,” Shawcross said.

“There is always hope but the manager usually picks on form and fitness and it has been the hardest two month of my career. That might count against me.

“The people who needed to be there were there for me and I thank them for that. I am delighted to be back on the pitch.

“I was a bit off the pace against Chelsea, which was not unexpected, but feel much sharper now. I am feeling good and confident,” he explained with confidence.