Matt Derbyshire's agent has moved to clear up speculation over the omission of the Blackburn forward from the latest England Under-21 squad.There were reports that Derbyshire had been dropped by Stuart Pearce when his name was not included in the party for next week's European Champonship qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.

But the striker's representative Gary Porter has explained that his client had asked not to be included as his partner is due to give birth very soon.

Porter told skysports.com: "Matt has spoken to Stuart Pearce and explained the situation to him.

"He's asked not to be included as he wants to be with his girlfriend who is due to give birth in the next few days.

"Stuart fully understands the situation and agreed to leave him out on this occasion."

Derbyshire has become an integral member of the Under-21 set-up and has also been in good form for Rovers this season, scoring five goals for Mark Hughes' men.

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