"Maybe he is closer now after his performance against Derby. I think he deserved a call-up, but I have a lot of respect for the England manager and if he decides to use different players that's okay," said Benitez.
"Jermaine knows he needs to keep working, playing well and maybe in the future he will be in the squad.
"If I am selfish I would say to you I prefer him to stay with us rather than leaving with the national side, but thinking about the player I think he is ready.
"He is improving a lot. Mentally he is more mature and he is very close for me."