Southgate says Zaha lacked heart for England

GARETH SOUTHGATE believes Wilfried Zaha never possessed the desire to play for England. The England manager also criticised Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish for questioning why Zaha had been overlooked by England. Zaha, after winning two caps for England in friendlies, opted to play for the Ivory Coast earlier this year. A stunning goal against Russia last week reopened the debate about his switch and Parish tweeted: ‘Why is this goal not for England?’ Palace wanted Zaha to play for England so they would not lose their winger during the Africa Cup of Nations. Southgate said one of his first tasks as England boss was to hold talks with Zaha over his international future. ‘I don’t think anyone would question Roy Hodgson for not bringing him last season,’ said Southgate. ‘I didn’t really appreciate there was this egg timer on going to the Ivory Coast and, of course, I was interim boss at the time. He was the first player I went to see when I got the job permanently but he’d already made his mind up to go to the Ivory Coast. We hoped to have him for us but there was nothing we could do. ‘I have to focus on players who are desperate to play for England. If you feel that internal passion for playing for England, then I’m not sure it’s for me to sell that to you. It should be your desire to do it.’ On Parish’s tweet, he added: ‘Steve’s an intelligent guy who has done a fantastic job for that club, but I’m not sure it’s helpful to comment.’