Cole - I'm hungrier now

13 February 2009 14:09
Carlton Cole says his first England cap has made him even hungrier for success.[LNB] The West Ham striker was handed his international debut when coming on as a 75th minute substitute in England's 2-0 away defeat to Spain.[LNB]This taste of life at the highest level has left Cole desperate for more and he is determined to work hard for Hammers - who take on Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Saturday - to earn another call-up.[LNB]He told the club's official website: "This has given me a massive confidence boost now. I know I can get chances in big games with my play and that is what I am going to be working on now at club level.[LNB]"I am going to work so hard for West Ham. Hopefully my scoring record will continue and I am just going to get better and better for the club. Now I have had a little taste, I am more hungry now. I want success and I want to get chosen again. I want to stay in the England squad.[LNB]"I want much more of this. David Beckham signified how great it is to play for your country with his 108th cap and I was just glad to be on the pitch for my first when he was equalling the record. I was overwhelmed with excitement to be coming on in a game like that, especially as at one point I thought I might miss out."[LNB]While pleased to play for England, Cole was also disappointed that the Three Lions lost the game.[LNB]ToughHe added: "I had hoped it would be a win but when you are playing the European champions it is tough. I knew we had a great team but they had a better team on the night.[LNB]"They deserved their victory. I was disappointed not to score right at the end but I got my 15-minute cameo and it was really good for me to be involved in the England set-up."[LNB]He also enjoyed playing under national boss Fabio Capello.[LNB]"He is a quality manager. He tells you what he wants and what he expects and you have got to deliver," he said.[LNB]"The boys were a bit unlucky. We got outshone by a good side but we have our foundation and England are working towards getting better and better as each game comes."[LNB]Kept shirtCole kept hold of his Number 21 England shirt at the end of the night as a reminder of the important occasion.[LNB]He said: "A few of the Spanish boys wanted to swap shirts but I had to keep it. I don't care who it was who asked me for it. It was one of those things that you never know if the chance will come again. I took it home with me. I was so excited and happy to be on the field."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports