Jonjo Shelvey eyes England recall after key role in impressive Swansea start

Jonjo Shelvey says playing for England again is his dream

JONJO SHELVEY hopes his impressive start to the season has sent out a message to the England manager Roy Hodgson.

 

The 23-year-old starred in Swansea's opening-day 2-2 draw at Chelsea, and then backed that display up with a perfect slide-rule pass for Bafetimbi Gomis opener in the weekend's 2-0 win over Newcastle.

Shelvey, having been criticised by Swans manager Garry Monk last season, is noticeably leaner than last term, having worked with a personal trainer during the summer to stay in shape. He also advertised for a live-in chef to regiment his diet.

 

All that hard work looks to be paying off already, and the former Liverpool midfielder has set himself the target of getting back in the Three Lions squad.

His one and only international cap came under Hodgson in a 5-0 thrashing of San Marino at Wembley in October 2012.

"It is everyone's dream to play for their country, and obviously it is my dream as well," said Shelvey.

 

Shelvey's one and only England cap came in 2012 against San Marino

"Hopefully I can keep on putting in performances like this for Roy Hodgson to let me in his squad.

"I feel a lot better in myself. Its all been well-documented about the chef and all that but I worked hard in the summer.

Now I have to stay on top of it, listening to the manager here, improving and fighting for my place."

 

Elsewhere, Swansea have completed the signing of the talented Falkirk striker Botti Biabi. The 19-year-old Biabi, who has represented Scotland at under-19 level and helped Falkirk reach last season's Scottish Cup final, has agreed a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance.

London-born Biabi will now link up with the club's under-21 squad.

He said: "I am excited to join because this is a big club.

"Obviously, Stephen (Kingsley) and Jay (Fulton) arrived here from Falkirk, so that will help me settle into the club. I have spoken to them both, and they've made me feel very welcome."