World Cup

Stuart Pearce: 'Luke Shaw shouldn't go to World Cup'

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter | 04 May 2014

Former England international Stuart Pearce believes that Southampton defender Luke Shaw shouldn't go to the World Cup, but he should build experience in the Under-21 side.

Former England international Stuart Pearce has revealed that he doesn't want to see Southampton defender Luke Shaw selected for the World Cup.

The 18-year-old has been backed to feature in Roy Hodgson's 23-man squad for the competition in Brazil after an excellent season with the Saints.

However, Pearce believes that Shaw should have a platform to build from playing in the Under-21 age group before he makes the transition to the senior side.

He told The Mirror: "I've seen the importance, from inside the England set-up, of not upgrading people too quickly into squads. People need to have a solid grounding in the age-groups before putting them in the senior England squad.

"There is a Toulon tournament this year as well as an Under-21 qualifier against Wales in August. I'd most certainly involve Luke in both of those before taking him to a World Cup.

"I'd like to make sure younger players stay in their age-groups a little bit more and actually play. The most important thing is that the best young players in the country play at whatever age group. Being in the senior squad and not playing isn't helpful."

Hodgson will announce his provisional squad on May 12.