Sunderland fans furious over Jermain Defoe's England Euro 2016 snub

An overwhelming 91 per cent of supporters that took part in our online poll said the 33-year-old should have been on the plane to France this summer, with just nine per cent of fans backing the decision.

Hodgson opted for Manchester United's 18-year-old Marcus Rashford, rather than Defoe, in his initial 26-man party for the summer's tournament, despite the Sunderland striker netting 15 Premier League goals this season.

Defoe hasn't appeared for his country in more than two-and-a-half years, but says he will remain available to Hodgson if he is needed.

"I've never retired and I'll never turn my back on England because I still believe I can score goals at that level," said Defoe.

Fans, meanwhile, were quick to react to the news and here is the pick of the comments on our social media pages:

On our SAFC Facebook page, George Ledington wrote: "As an England fan yes, as a Sunderland fan no, get a good rest and a proper pre-season and boom gets us off to a flyer."

Sarah Jane O'Neill added: "Exactly why I don't watch England matches."

Jordan Renton said: "Disgrace Defoe not being there," while fellow supporter James Rebecca McQuilliam said: "How can Rooney get in before Defoe?"

Kevin Ebdale said: "Defoe should be in," while Barry Daley added: "Nope it's favouritism again rather than form."

Meanwhile, Bailey Hunter said: "Rashford does not deserve the spot because he played only a few games and is inexperienced whereas Defoe is more experienced."

Marge Crouch added: "It was same when Kevin Philips played for SAFC he got the Golden Boot and only got one game for England. Shocking."

Tom Woodward said: "At least he will come back for the new season fit, injury free and ready to go, England's loss Sunderland's gain. Ha'way the Lads."

George Ritchie MBE tweeted @sunechosafc: "Absolutely shambolic decision by Roy Hodgson to omit Jermain Defoe from squad another snub by him over Sunderland."

Borneomackem left this comment online: "This team will do nothing. Enjoy your holidays Jermain and come back ready to laugh."

Dubbus wrote: "Delph, Wilshire and Rashford have they even as much game time between them as much as Defoe alone this season?

"Even Lallana, Rooney, Sterling have been bang out of form.

"That England squad is one of the worst I've seen in years. Rashford hasn't even played for Under-21s. I can't understand the managers thinking.

"With ten mins to go one nil down I know who I think might pop up with a goal."