England assistant Gary Neville impressed by Carl Jenkinson

By Liam Power, Reporter | 08 October 2012

Gary Neville admits that Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson has moved up the England pecking order with an "immeasurable improvement" for the Gunners over the last 12 months.

Gary Neville has admitted that Arsenal full-back Carl Jenkinson is close to forcing his way into the England fold thanks to a strong start to the season.

Jenkinson has impressed for the Gunners, deputising for the injured Bacary Sagna to become an ever-present member of an improved Arsenal defence.

England coach Neville believes that Jenkinson has caught the eye of Roy Hodgson with his all-action style.

He told talkSPORT: "Carl Jenkinson has improved immeasurably over the last 12 months.

"It was very difficult for him at the start of his Arsenal career last year because of the changes in the defence. There was never a settled defence for him to perform in.

"But you look at the way he's performing now and he's been magnificent for Arsenal in the early stages of the season.

"England have good options at right-back with Glen Johnson and Kyle Walker, and others as well, but he's definitely someone who is being watched continuously, he's definitely catching the eye."

The 20-year-old represented Finland at youth level, but has turned down a request to play for the senior side in order to chase a place in the Three Lions squad.