Stewart Downing doubts England return

Stewart Downing has conceded that he does not expect to play for England again, particularly while Roy Hodgson remains at the helm.

The West Ham United winger has not represented the Three Lions since a pre-Euro 2012 friendly against Norway.

Although the 30-year-old has refused to give up hope of a recall altogether, he has admitted that realistically, he may not add to his 34 senior caps.

"I'd never say my England career was over but, if I am realistic, I don't think I will get a chance while Roy Hodgson is in charge. The only thing I can do is keep playing well and if injuries happen, you never know, he might change his mind," he told the London Evening Standard.

"If he doesn't pick me that's fair enough, it's his opinion. He did pick me for the Euros but didn't play me and after that I didn't get selected again. He hadn't really seen me but maybe I didn't fit into his systems or he wanted to go for younger players - I honestly don't know.

"I'm still only 30 and maybe if I don't get an opportunity under this England coach, it could still happen further down the line."

Downing made his Three Lions debut against the Netherlands in February 2005.