Adam Johnson is determined to make Fabio Capello's World Cup party after debuting for England.
City winger sets sights on Capello's World Cup squad
Adam Johnson is determined to make Fabio Capello's World Cup party after making his debut for England on Monday night.
The winger earned his first cap in the final six minutes of England's 3-1 friendly victory over Mexico at Wembley, and could have another chance to prove his worth to Capello ahead of South Africa in Sunday's clash against Japan.
Johnson, who moved from Middlesbrough to Manchester City in the January transfer window, is hopeful of making the final cut, but admits the competition for a spot in the 23-man squad is intense.
Fierce
"It was fantastic to have my first experience of England. It's what everyone wants to do when they are a kid and I got a few touches," said Johnson.
"The competition for places is fierce. The training has been really sharp with everyone trying to impress the manager and obviously he has a really tough decision to make.
"I've enjoyed every minute of it and hopefully it will continue."
He added: "The squad announcement is very close now. It's just around the corner. We have one more friendly to hopefully try to impress again and we'll see what happens.
"Everyone is fighting for their place and trying extra hard. Now we go back to Austria and we have one more game. I'll give it my all.
"There's obviously some people who are going to be disappointed but, you never know, maybe I won't be one of them."
Johnson made his England debut less than six months after departing Middlesbrough for City, and the 22-year-old has paid tribute to the club for helping him reach the international stage.
Opportunity
"The last six months have been unbelievable and winning my first England cap was the proudest moment of my career," he told City's
official website.
"Middlesbrough were great for me and my development, but coming to City has been fantastic.
"If I'd stayed where I was I doubt I would have had this opportunity and now hopefully I can end the season by going to the World Cup."
