England is calling for Alex
MARK HUGHES has told Gareth Southgate that England would be in safe hands with Southampton keeper Alex McCarthy.
McCarthy, 28, was watched by Southgate during last weekend’s defeat at Everton and will get another chance to impress the Three Lions boss against Leicester today.
Saints boss Hughes said: “Alex is a very accomplished goalkeeper and Gareth will know that.
“He has been doing good work in training and hasn’t had any chance with the goals that have gone past him.
“He has made key saves as well. He is in good form and if he gets picked by England he won’t let anybody down.
“He is a modern day goalkeeper and towards the end of last year made some saves that were match defining – that is the mark of a top quality goalkeeper.
Thrive
“Alex did that on any number of occasions.”
McCarthy, who ousted England international Fraser Forster as Saints’ No.1 last season, came close to being capped at international level under Sam Allardyce.
Hughes said: “He has got a lot of pressure for his role from Fraser and another outstanding keeper that we have bought to the club in Angus Gunn as well.
“He’s got pressure to perform, which he seems to thrive on.
“He has come into the role of No.1 at a Premier League club and is enjoying it and embracing the experience.”
Saints have taken just one point from their first two games and Hughes knows Leicester will be dangerous opponents.
He added: “Leicester are the club that gain more points on the road than most.
“They are a very accomplished counter attacking team and it is always very difficult to go up against them.
“You want to be on the front foot but you are very aware of the threat they have on the break.”