Manchester United midfielder
Michael Carrick is desperate to make England's World Cup squad.
Carrick, watched by Capello as he struck United’s Champions
League winner against Wolfsburg on Wednesday, said: “Playing in the
World Cup was always an ambition, same as every kid. My passion
when England comes around is as strong as it could be.
“No one wants to play for England more than me and all the lads
are the same.
“You’re desperate for the honour of playing for your country at
Wembley and in World Cups. It’s something you can’t buy.
“Just because I don’t go around shouting about it and saying
this and that doesn’t mean I’m any different. It’s just not in my
nature to do that.”
Some fans and pundits feel allegiance to England is influenced
by geography, claiming players from the south care more for the
country than their northern counterparts.
Geordie Carrick hit back: “I can only speak for myself and I
love playing for England.
“You look around the squad at the moment and everybody’s
enjoying it and it’s a great place to be. Results speak for
themselves. Just as playing for United, you’re always in the
spotlight with England and now you’re always expected to win.
“It makes you want to improve and the performances show that.
Hopefully it continues to the World Cup.”