Stuart Pearce challenges Ishmael Miller to shine

Mar 20 2008 By Chris Lepkowski

ENGLAND Under-21 boss Stuart Pearce has challenged Albion striker Ishmael Miller to prove himself on the international stage.

Miller was handed a call-up by his former Manchester City manager for Tuesday's Molineux friendly against Poland.

Pearce, who also named 22-year-old Luke Moore as an over-age player in his party, believes Miller has the potential to shine having adapted to the demands of the Championship in what is effectively his first proper full season of professional football.

He now believes Miller needs to show that he can cut it at the next level.

"Obviously I know Ishmael inside out because I had him at Manchester City," said Pearce.

"He's caught the eye and his goals for West Brom this season have been a major feature in how they've done, obviously most recently with the hat-trick in the FA Cup game. He can ghost past two or three players, unload a shot and score when maybe you don't feel there's any danger.

"We've seen that at club level. Now we have to see whether he can handle the England under-21 level because there is probably a bit more pressure."