Having scored three times in ten league outings this season, the 24-year-old is joined on the list by fellow Saints Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert.
When asked of his inclusions Hodgson said: "Adam was with us once a long time ago but he came in late and didn't play, but we did see him in training. We've been following him very closely and he's played a major part in Southampton's rise to the top this season. It was quite obvious we would pick him.
"When it comes to Rodriguez, Danny Welbeck at the moment has been injured. We hope he'll be fit to play but I see in Rodriguez someone who could fill that Welbeck role. He's a wide forward who likes to go forward and attack people even without the ball and get in the penalty box. We think he's played well for Southampton and think this might be an interesting opportunity for him."
Joe Hart retained his place in the squad despite his recent mistakes which have lead Manchester City to drop him. Hodgson resisted calling up West Ham's Ravel Morrison and Southampton defender Luke Shaw who have both made very impressive starts to the season with their retrospective clubs.
Captain Steven Gerrard is also named in the squad although he has a hip problem. Andros Townsend who sparkled in his recent debut for England retains his place as well as 19 year old Everton midfielder, Ross Barkley. England are yet to face Germany since losing 4-1 to them in the knock out stage of the 2010 World Cup. Joachim Low?s side have qualified for the tournament next year with an unbeaten record in Group C. England?s other opponents, Chile, managed to secure their place in Brazil by beating Ecuador 2-1.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers
Fraser Forster, Joe Hart, John Ruddy.
Defenders
Leighton Baines, Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, Kieran Gibbs, Phil Jagielka, Glen Johnson, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Kyle Walker.
Midfielders
Ross Barkley, Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Adam Lallana, Frank Lampard, James Milner, Andros Townsend, Jack Wilshere.
Forwards
Jermain Defoe, Rickie Lambert, Jay Rodriguez, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Welbeck.
Source: DSG
Source: DSG