David James believes he is capable of re-establishing himself as England's first-choice goalkeeper.
Goalkeeper ready to reclaim England jersey
David James believes he is capable of re-establishing himself as England's first-choice goalkeeper.
The Portsmouth shot-stopper has been forced to watch on during the Three Lions' last five fixtures as West Ham's Robert Green has staked his claim to the No.1 jersey.
James underwent shoulder surgery over the summer in an effort to cure a niggling injury, while he sustained a knock to his knee when closing in on full fitness at the start to this season.
He is disappointed to have missed out on so much international action over recent months, but insists he is ready to win back his place in Fabio Capello's starting XI for Saturday's 2010 World Cup qualifier against Ukraine.
"England don't need anyone to be hanging on or dragging behind. If I didn't think I could offer a very decent performance, I wouldn't put myself forward," James told
Sky Sports News.
"I'm in the squad so I have a chance to play, but obviously the manager will be the one who decides who starts on Saturday.
"For me personally it's just great to get back in the squad. The needs of the team and the outcome being positive is all that matters. I want to be the one that starts, of course, but if I'm not starting and the team wins, happy days."
Frustrating
He added: "The operation has meant that I was going to miss games. The timing of the operation was supposed to coincide with the start of the season and then playing throughout.
"Unfortunately, because of hiccups and a further injury which wasn't related to the operation, I was unable to play in the game against Croatia, which was very frustrating.
"My training has slightly changed because of the operation. The further injury I had after the Birmingham game still needs some attention given to it, but it's not going to stop me playing games."
James is looking forward to rejoining a winning team, with England having taken maximum points from their eight games in Group Six so far.
He believes coach Capello is largely responsible for the recent upturn in fortunes and insists England can achieve great things under their Italian tactician.
"I'm confident that England are going to be successful and I believe in what Mr Capello wants us to achieve and I believe in the side we have got to try and achieve that," he added.
"My decision to put myself forward to be part of the squad was because I want to be part of this team and a successful side. If I couldn't be involved in that I wouldn't put myself forward."
