Thursday May 24 2007 17:02
Defender Joleon Lescott has thanked
Everton for allowing him to fulfill the dream of playing for England after being handed a first call-up to a senior international.
Lescott has been named on the substitute's bench for Friday's England B international with Albania and is hoping to make it on to the pitch alongside fellow Toffee Phil Neville at Burnley's Turf Moor ground.
The 24-year-old arrived at Goodison Park last summer from Wolves and believes his call-up is down to the fact he's playing in the media spotlight.
"Every player wants to represent his country and I'm no different," he told the club's official website.
"I'm a big England fan and of course I'd read some reports linking me with a call-up, which was nice.
"But it's not something I've dwelled on. I've been happy to do my best for Everton and then whatever else happens is a bonus.
"When you're playing for a top team that's regularly doing well, then obviously you have a better chance of being recognised at international level.
"I drew here (at Turf Moor) 1-1 with Wolves last season but I never considered for a moment that my next match at Burnley would be for an England side!"
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