Johnson wants starting berth

08 September 2010 08:30

Adam Johnson has revealed his determination to force his way into the England starting XI after netting for the second time in four days as a substitute.

The Manchester City winger followed up his first international goal against Bulgaria after coming off the bench with another in the impressive 3-1 win over Switzerland in Basle on Tuesday night. It was the perfect response from Johnson after being left out of the final 23 for the World Cup by Fabio Capello.

"The aim is to make a contribution. You're disappointed not to be starting. You want to do your best when you come on and try to push to get into the starting XI," said Johnson.

"I've tried to do that and I've got a couple of goals to show my efforts but it's up to the manager."

Johnson was also full of pride at six City players being on the pitch for England at the final whistle.

He said: "It was nice to have six of the lads finish the game. It's a credit to the club. Hopefully that will continue.

"We've come off the back of two great wins and everyone is happy.

"It's a great two results and we're looking forward to meeting up again full of confidence.

"Coming into the qualifying group, there was a lot of pressure on us.

"I think with two wins, we're top of the group, we're full of confidence and we want to push on."

Source: PA