Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle has expressed his disappointment that Gary Cahill was overlooked in England’s friendly against Hungary on Wednesday.
The Bolton centre-back, who has been called up before by Fabio Capello, appeared to have a good chance of making an appearance.
But Cahill did not make it onto the field for the 2-1 victory at Wembley with John Terry starting alongside Phil Jagielka in the heart of the defence and Dawson coming on for the former captain.
Nevertheless, Coyle feels it is only a matter of time before Cahill gets his chance.
Coyle told Sky Sports: "There was an element of disappointment and frustration.
"We all felt and were certainly hoping that we would see Gary wear that England shirt, which he would have done with immense pride.
"As great as it was to have him in the squad, we all wanted to see him pulling that shirt on and it never happened.
"I'm disappointed for him because I felt it was a perfect opportunity for the whole country to see him.
"Ask any manager in the Premier League and they all know his qualities, but it would have been nice for the whole country to have seen that.
"Michael Dawson and Phil Jagielka are terrific players and deserved a chance, but I just felt it would have been nice to include Gary within that as well.
"I have no doubts it will come. Gary Cahill is a top-class player and one that is getting better.
"Week by week, I believe he is improving and there is no doubt that he will be one of the England centre-halves for years to come."
Franco, Italia around 1 year, 5 months ago