AJ enjoying the England spotlight

Adam Johnson admits he thrives on the pressure of having to perform for England after scoring on his competitive debut against Bulgaria. The Manchester City winger capped a fine display with the third goal in England's 4-0 win in a Euro 2012 qualifier at Wembley.Johnson was disappointed to miss out on Fabio Capello's final squad for South Africa.But he is determined to make amends by playing a significant role in England booking their spot in Ukraine and Poland in two years time.He said: "It was massive for me on Friday, scoring my first goal in my first competitive game."The goal on Friday was the highlight of my career. As a kid you dream about scoring at Wembley for England."That was definitely the career high for me. I just hope there are a few more."It is brilliant being here. I don't mind having the pressure of performance."That brings me on more. I just want to do what I have being doing for my club. Pressure makes me play better."Everyone wants to start games. I am no different. It is a big job. You have to help the team out."Coming on and getting the third goal was massive for me. I will just keep trying to do well for my club and force my way in."Johnson made the initial 30 for South Africa but was left out along with fellow winger Theo Walcott when Capello decided upon his final choices.He said: "The World Cup comes around every four years. No matter how it goes, it is always good to say you have been to a World Cup."I would have liked to go and show what I can do on the biggest stage. Now I have to wait another four years."I was disappointed with the decision but it is behind me now."Johnson has his sights on success for club and country this season and can see similarities between City boss Roberto Mancini and his fellow Italian Capello.He said: "Mancini and Capello are pretty similar in certain ways, with tactics and things like that."They have an Italian mentality. They want a good shape and base to the team, which I am learning at my club as well."They are similar sorts of personalities in the way they want to get their message across so it has not been too difficult for me."Johnson admitted: "For my club this season I want to win something, go for the title or to reach the Champions League."For England I want to get as many caps as I can, try and get in the starting XI and hopefully score some more goals."

Source: Team_Talk