Source: Team_Talk
Cattermole targets U21s recall
Sunderland captain Lee Cattermole is desperate to regain his place in the England Under-21 team as he pines for full honours. [LNB] The Black Cats midfielder has lost his place in Stuart Pearce's squad and has seen team-mate Jordan Henderson leapfrog him into the senior squad. [LNB]Cattermole's start to the campaign was blighted by a series of dismissals but the Middlesbrough Academy graduate is hoping his new blend of controlled aggression and skill will see him recalled to the international scene. [LNB]His improvement has been duly noted by Pearce but the combative midfielder hopes that in time Fabio Capello does too. [LNB]"I need to get back into the Under-21 side before I can start thinking about a full cap, but as an English lad playing in the Premier League it's always something that's on your mind," Cattermole told the Journal. [LNB]"I've been left out of the Under-21s for the last few meet ups, but I've spoken to Stuart Pearce and told him I feel much more comfortable in terms of my fitness and everything this season.[LNB]"I had a few problems injury wise last year, and things were a bit up and down. But I'm much happier with how things are going now.[LNB]"I'm enjoying my football at the minute. I had a tough start to the season with the sending offs and things like that, but I've had a good run in the side now and a settled run of games, which I never really got last season."[LNB]Henderson and Cattermole have been able to develop a good understanding at the heart of Sunderland's midfield, which has been one of the reasons behind their success this term. [LNB]"I feel much fitter, and that's helping me get up and down the pitch all game long. [LNB]"Sometimes, maybe I'm a bit more disciplined for the team and that detracts a bit from my own performance," Cattermole added. [LNB]"I know I can push on a bit more now. Jordan and I have a good understanding, and I feel like I can push on a bit more without having to worry so much about what's happening behind me.[LNB]"If I want to go, Jordan's more than happy to sit.[LNB]"I'm enjoying playing, and I haven't really thought about England for one second. [LNB]"I just want to keep doing well for Sunderland. But in my mind, I think I'm capable of playing for my country."
