Villa defender Warnock looks to bridge England's World Cup gap at left back

22 October 2009 13:00
Aston Villa defender Stephen Warnock has revealed his ambition to add to his one England cap to date under Fabio Capello 16 months ago. And the 27-year-old believes making the switch from Blackburn to Villa during the summer transfer window can only bolster his chances of achieving that goal. Capello watched Warnock in action during Villa's recent home draw with Manchester City and he has quickly settled into the left-back role. He made his solitary senior international appearance to date during the friendly international with Trinidad & Tobago in June 2008. Ashley Cole is firmly established as the number one left-back but Wayne Bridge was unconvincing when filling the role in last week's World Cup qualifier with Belarus at Wembley. Warnock said: 'Fabio Capello was at the game with Manchester City a couple of weeks back and I've heard that he is quite a regular visitor to Villa Park. 'It was great to make my England debut. One of my ambitions is to play again for England - and I don't see why that can't happen. 'Coming to a club like this has offered me the chance to do it and it is still very much on my mind.' Warnock, however, has his feet firmly on the ground and knows he has to has to keep playing to his potential to hold onto his Villa spot with Wilfred Bouma close to fitness after his long-term ankle problem and Nicky Shorey looking for a recall. He said: 'I have to play as well as I can and keep them out of the team. It may sound harsh but I am here to look after myself. 'I know from my time at Liverpool what it is like when someone comes in and takes your position but that's the way it is. 'As much as I feel for the other lads, I intend to play as well as well as I can and keep my place.'

Source: Daily_Mail