Davies shocked at England call-up

Davies: Delighted with call-up

On-loan Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies has spoken of his shock at being called up to Fabio Capello's provisional England squad.

Davies has been selected in the initial 30-man set-up and will discover on Saturday if he is to make the final 23.

Speaking after the squad announcement, Curtis told the club's official website: "I'm completely shocked but absolutely delighted. I wasn't thinking about it from my perspective at all.

"I thought about those who might get into their first squad but I didn't think I'd be one of them! I'm really happy."

Davies is one of five Villa players to be picked in the initial 30, with Ashley Young, Gareth Barry, Gabby Agbonlahor and Scott Carson also called up.

Practical joke

Davies admits he could not believe it when he heard the news and initially thought it was a practical joke.

"When I got the news I thought it was a wind up!" he said. "I had to check several times before I realised the message was genuine.

"I really didn't have a clue I'd be called up. It makes the waiting at the start of the season all worthwhile.

"I just hope now I've done enough to get into the final squad when it's announced at the weekend. But this is a great first step and just to know I'm in the manager's mind is a brilliant feeling."

Taking nothing for granted

Agbonlahor has also spoken of his delight at making the initial 30, saying: "It's brilliant to make the set-up. Everyone has been saying things about me all season but I've just tried to concentrate on playing my game.

"The thought of joining up with a senior England squad is a tremendous honour," he added. "But I won't be taking that for granted until after the weekend."