`Surprise' start spurs Lescott on

Joleon Lescott admits his inclusion in the England starting XI against Andorra came as a complete surprise - but the Everton defender intends to do all he can to become a permanent fixture in Fabio Capello's side. The England boss juggled his team somewhat for the final match of the season against minnows Andorra, who were swept aside 6-0 at Wembley on Wednesday night. However, the result was inevitable as England maintained their 100% record to move 10 points clear of Ukraine and Croatia at the top of Group six and now need a maximum of four points from their final three games to rubber stamp their ticket to the World Cup. West Ham defender Matthew Upson had widely been expected to again start alongside captain John Terry at centre-back because of the absence of injured Rio Ferdinand. However, after being given the nod by Capello, Lescott wants more of the same next season. He said: "Going into the game I did not expect to play because Matt has been doing well recently. It was a surprise to me and I only knew when we had a meeting at 5.45pm and my name was down in the team. "I have just got to stay focused and give it my all when I come to join up with England by training hard."

Source: Eurosport