Head coach Walter Mazzarri believes Watford captain Troy Deeney has the ability to play at international level and thinks he deserves a call-up to the England squad.

With Harry Kane sidelined due to injury, there has been talk of Deeney earning a spot in the squad for next month's World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Slovenia.

England boss Sam Allardyce watched Deeney score for the Hornets in their 3-1 win over Manchester United last weekend.

Mazzarri, who has not yet been contacted by the FA to discuss Deeney, said: “I will be proud and really happy if Deeney gets into the national team. I would be very happy if that happens.

“He’s improved physically and improved drastically. We saw him at West Ham, we really like his strength in the air and he’s physically much fitter now.

“I respect the England manager and his decision. I am biased as he is one of my players. He’s a strong striker and just needs to look after his fitness and of course he’s international level.”