Joe Cole believes he has the ability to make a difference in South Africa.

Joe Cole may be playing in his third World Cup but the midfielder insists he is as excited as ever about England's chances in South Africa.

There are just three days to go before England start their World Cup campaign against the USA in Rustenburg, with Cole now one of the more experienced members of the 23-man squad.

The 28-year-old made his World Cup debut in 2002 and was a key part of Sven-Goran Eriksson's side in Germany four years ago.

Cole played the full 90 minutes in the Three Lions' 3-0 warm-up victory over Platinum Stars on Monday and the attacking midfielder is dreaming of lining up against the United States this weekend.

He said: "It's a great feeling being at a World Cup. I love coming away for these tournaments. I remember how excited I was for my first World Cup (in 2002). It was new and amazing.

"I still have that hunger and it would mean the world to me to play against America. The main thing is that we get the result because the first game of the tournament is so important."

Cole has been impressed with the sharpness of the players in training and, after injury problems during the Premier League season with Chelsea, is delighted to be back in Fabio Capello's reckoning.

"I'm very confident in my ability," he added. "It was tough for the manager to pick me when I was not playing regularly for my club.

"There is now a chance I could be playing so that is fantastic. It's been a good ten to 15 days of training and everyone has looked sharp.  I'm back to my best and I want to show it this World Cup.

"I have always equipped myself well for England. I like international football, I enjoy the style of the game."

Watch video highlights of the press conference now, by clicking on the link to the right.