Wolves newcomer Roger Johnson has set his sights on winning an England spot after completing his move from Birmingham.
Johnson has been included in several of Fabio Capello's provisional squads without making the final breakthrough. But the 28-year-old is hoping that is about to change after signing a four-year deal with Mick McCarthy's side.
Johnson said: "From the age of 28 to 32 is probably when you're at your peak - so I feel on top of my game. I feel I've developed 10-fold since I've been in the Premier League. That's why it wasn't an option to go down to the Championship. Playing in the Premier League was a factor in the decision (to go to Wolves) and the England thing comes with that."
He added: "It's down to me to perform to as good a standard as the England manager will want for his team. I spoke to (England assistant boss) Franco Baldini and he said 'keep doing what you're doing, you're close'.
"It's disappointing when you get into the provisional squad and it gets cut to 23 and my name isn't in it. You're waiting for that phone call and then you find out off TV like everyone else if you're not in it.
"But hopefully being back in the Premier League now I can fight for that position. I'm that close. A couple of injuries and hopefully I get that chance.
"To get that call would be a great honour. If I can perform to the levels I've done in the last couple of seasons, then you never know."
Johnson wants to put the heartbreak of being relegated with Birmingham behind him by helping Wolves to become established as a Premier League force.
He said: "The Carling Cup win was great, great for football, a day I'll never forget. But then again, getting relegated was another day I'll never forget. It was heartbreaking.
"Nothing against Birmingham, I had some great times there, the fans were great for me. I gave everything for the club so I hope they can appreciate that. But for me this feels right and hopefully I can help establish them in mid-table and then kick on."
Source: PA
