David Gold admitted this afternoon that Roy Hodgson’s England squad for the games against Slovenia and Scotland has been a bitter/sweet experience for him.

The Irons chairman is of course delighted that Stewart Downing is back in favour but disappointed there’s no room for Mark Noble in the squad.

He told ClaretandHugh: “Stewart’s inclusion is well deserved. he’s been outstanding this season and everybody in the club will be delighted for him.

“He has been quite brilliant in the diamond formation and I really hope we see him on the pitch in one or both of the games.

“However, I am really disappointed for Mark Noble. He too has been in excellent form and I had hoped he would get the call so that’s sad.

“It’s very much a case of mixed emotions but it’s great to see a Hammer back in the England squad.”