Southampton captain Adam Lallana says he was surprised by Roy Hodgson's decision not to hand Rickie Lambert an England call-up.
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The 30-year-old Saints striker has scored 11 Premier League goals this season - more than any of his compatriots - but was not considered for Wednesday's friendly against Brazil.
Jermain Defoe and Daniel Sturridge were named in the initial squad for the clash at Wembley but were forced to withdraw through injury.
Asked if he was shocked by his team-mate's exclusion, Lallana told The Sun: "Yes I was, especially after Defoe and Sturridge picked up knocks.
"He's got 11 Premier League goals which is the highest Englishman in the league. The stats are there.
"He's been absolutely outstanding for us and as long as we’ve got him fit and ready for us, that's all I'm worried about.
"He deserves it. How far he's come in such a short space is unbelievable."
A knee injury has restricted Lallana to two substitute appearances since Mauricio Pochettino was appointed Southampton boss, but he is aiming to return to the starting XI against Manchester City on Saturday.
"I've been itching to get back," the midfielder added. "I've been there or thereabouts for the last three or four weeks. I'm fully fit and hoping to start."