Mourinho, the coach of Roma, believes Smalling deserves to be called up to the England squad.

Roma coach Jose Mourinho says Chris Smalling deserves an England recall.

Smalling has been in fine form this season, and helped Mourinho's side keep their fourth clean sheet of the campaign in their 1-0 win against Sampdoria on Monday.

Speaking after that victory, Mourinho praised Smalling for his adaptability and said he would be desperate to have him in his side at international level. However, he hinted that he does not expect the 32-year-old to get an England recall any time soon.

"He was taught to play in a two-man defence in Manchester, but now he's got the perfect acumen to play in a three-man backline," Mourinho told reporters of the former Manchester United defender.

"If I were the coach of a national team, I would do anything to have someone like him at my disposal.

"I don't think it's a lack of respect to Gareth Southgate when I say that I feel very sorry for a player who's playing at such a high level like Smalling and who won't get the opportunity he deserves."