Tottenham defender Michael Dawson is hoping to finally earn his first England cap.
Dawson has been named in Fabio Capello’s provisional 30-man World Cup squad after a superb season with Spurs and will be hoping to make it into the 23-man squad which will head to South Africa.
The 26-year-old was previously involved in squads under Steve McLaren, but never made a senior appearance.
He said: “There had been a lot of talk about me being included, but in the back of your mind you’re never sure whether it will happen or not. Luckily enough for me, it has this time.
“I’ve been involved with England a number of times over the years but have unfortunately never won a cap. It’s been a few years since I’ve been in a squad now and it’s good timing to be in the World Cup one. It’s a great feeling to be named in it.
“Everyone knows what it would mean to me to play for England as I’ve said for many years when I haven’t been involved or when I have been involved. I said I’d never give up on one day playing for my country and I never have.
“When you’re playing for a top football club, as I have been this season on a regular basis and putting in good performances, there’s always that chance of playing for England. Luckily enough, I’ve got the call.”
“I’ve never been in one of Mr Capello’s squads before so I can go there and enjoy it, hopefully train well and there’s two games which I hope to be involved in to get my first cap,” added Dawson.
“I’ll just go and do what I’ve been doing all year, then we’ll see what happens. There are some top players in the provisional squad so we’ll have to wait and see.”
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