VIDEO: 'There's healthy competition'
by Chris Hatherall
Sunday, 04 September, 2011
Gary Cahill wants to keep his place in the Three Lions defence.
Click here to watch the video from Gary Cahill's Press Conference
Gary Cahill says he is on a real high going into Tuesday’s big game against Wales and believes England’s mix of youth and experience can take them a long way.
Bolton defender Cahill enjoyed a dream night in Bulgaria on Friday as he scored his first international goal in the 3-0 victory. Now he hopes to keep his place.
“It was a fantastic night all-around, first and foremost from a defensive point of view keeping a clean sheet,” he said. “I thought we defended really well as a team but the result and capped off by a goal. Personally I was really pleased.
"There is a lot of competition for centre-backs in this squad and it was great to get the nod."
Cahill played alongside England captain John Terry at the heart of the Three Lions defence and believes the partnership clicked immediately.
“I thought it worked very well,” he said. “Playing alongside someone as talented as John Terry will help bring my game along and I'll learn a lot from him.
“I've been around the squad a little while, not too long, I had to bide my time. But seeing the squad now, with the young players coming in, there is a good blend. The experienced pros are still here so I think it bodes well for England.
“There is good competition and it is only healthy for the team. There are some outstanding players in my position so it is really hard to get hold of the shirt. When you do, it is down to yourself to try and keep hold of it.
“There are always going to be people in front of you and over your shoulder so it keeps you on your toes.”
Now Cahill has his mind set on beating Wales at Wembley.
He added: “It is about getting a positive result off the back of the game on Friday. The table is looking healthy. Wales did us a favour on Friday. We've got two big games coming up and will approach them in a similar manner.”
England play Wales in their penultimate UEFA Euro 2012 qualifier at Wembley, for tickets click here