Alan Shearer claims England caps are being given to players before they have earned the right to represent their country.

The former England captain, who retired from international football two years ago, believes hopefuls must prove themselves

at club level before they are picked by Sven-Goran Eriksson.

"A lot of caps have been given out for players who haven't earned them," he said.

Shearer has yet to be convinced too that the time is right for England to call up in-form Saints forward James Beattie.

"Beattie has done it for two or three months. If he can do it for seven or eight then maybe," the ex-Saint said.

"He is a powerful player with a tremendous shot and is very good in the air.

"The signs are good, but he has to be more consistent.

"He has had purple patches over the previous two or three seasons and died off. But this year he is more prolific, and I hope he keeps going.

"If he does he will get a chance for England."