Hodgson adds to Dunn praise

Dunn: On song

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has added his voice to those championing David Dunn's England credentials ahead of the arrival of Blackburn on Wednesday.

After seemingly putting the injury problems of the early stages of his career behind him, the midfielder has been in superb form for his club this season.

Sunday's excellent goal in the Lancashire derby win over Bolton was Dunn's sixth of the season in all competitions to increase suggestions that he is in England boss Fabio Capello's thoughts.

The 29-year-old played down the speculation last week, but Hodgson believes he undoubtedly has the ability to add to his one cap for the Three Lions, which came in the 2002 friendly against Portugal.

Dunn was handed his Blackburn debut by Hodgson during his time as manager at Ewood Park in 1998 and the Cottagers boss remains a fan, but acknowledges he faces a tough task to break into the England squad.

Difficult

He said: "It will be difficult for David because Fabio Capello's been working for two years with a group of players and his central midfield is particularly strong.

"Realistically speaking it will be tough, but it's not out of the question. If you are asking me if he has the qualities to play for England, I am sure he has."

Hodgson is also aware that Dunn will prove a threat ahead of the Premier League clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage.

"He's a player who, during his best years, got blighted with some quite serious injuries that kept him out for months and months at a time," said the Fulham chief.

"He's been unlucky with injuries and it's obvious that's had an effect. But his strength is, despite all that, he's back now and to see him back and doing well is great.

"I gave him his debut. He was a very good player as an 18-year-old when he came into the team in 1998. He is obviously a very gifted player."