George Burley is urging England team coach Kevin Keegan to hand James Scowcroft an international chance.

The Ipswich Town manager described the former Under 21 star's performance in the 1-0 win over Stockport as "the best he has ever played".

Scowcroft started and finished the move which led to Town's winner in the 34th minute with a right foot volley for his tenth goal of the season.

And, with cries of "Scowie for England" ringing around Portman Road, Burley is confident his young forward can make the step up to the international arena.

He said: "Scowie is England class, there is no doubt in my mind about that. This was the best I have ever seen him play but he will add so much more to his game as he progresses.

"He has had a taste of international football with the Under 21 squad and I think he can go on and win further honours.

"Scowie has so much to his game other than just goalscoring. He is very creative and does a great job of bringing other players into the game."

Burley also paid tribute to Matt Holland who, despite suffering from a heavy bout of flu, played twice within the space of 48 hours.

He said: "Matt had no right to be playing and he was largely surviving on football instinct.

"He hasn't being feeling at all well but it is a testament to his character he insists on playing."

Town striker David Johnson, who was substituted for Micky Stockwell, will get the chance to rest his troublesome calf strain. The 14-goal striker is suspended for the trip to First Division strugglers Port Vale on January 3 after picking up five bookings.

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