Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is desperate to make England's World Cup squad.
Carrick, watched by Capello as he struck United’s Champions League winner against Wolfsburg on Wednesday, said: “Playing in the World Cup was always an ambition, same as every kid. My passion when England comes around is as strong as it could be.
“No one wants to play for England more than me and all the lads are the same.
“You’re desperate for the honour of playing for your country at Wembley and in World Cups. It’s something you can’t buy.
“Just because I don’t go around shouting about it and saying this and that doesn’t mean I’m any different. It’s just not in my nature to do that.”
Some fans and pundits feel allegiance to England is influenced by geography, claiming players from the south care more for the country than their northern counterparts.
Geordie Carrick hit back: “I can only speak for myself and I love playing for England.
“You look around the squad at the moment and everybody’s enjoying it and it’s a great place to be. Results speak for themselves. Just as playing for United, you’re always in the spotlight with England and now you’re always expected to win.
“It makes you want to improve and the performances show that. Hopefully it continues to the World Cup.”