25 May 2005    
Michael Carrick: Exclusive

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Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Michael Carrick hopes to end his three-year exile from the England team when Sven-Goran Eriksson's side line up against America on Saturday.

Carrick has earned his recall after an excellent season back in the Premiership with Tottenham, having recovered from the blow of relegation and a loss of form with his previous club, West Ham.

Carrick also reveals he is glad to be among old friends for his chance to break back into the international scene on a regular basis.

He said: "I'm so excited to be involved with England once more that it feels like the first time for me all over again. Thankfully, I know all but about four of the lads from the old Under-21 set-up so it has not been much of a problem settling into the squad.

"I've come on a lot since the disappointment of going down with West Ham and I think I have emerged from those dark days as a stronger player and person.

"Hopefully I can show that if I get the chance to play against America on Saturday. That is certainly what I intend to do given the opportunity.

"They might be only friendly games, but I see them as massive opportunities and I am very excited. Being in the England set up is a great place to be and Sven has made me feel welcome along with the rest of the lads."

But Carrick warned England fans not to expect easy games in the two-match tour against the USA and Colombia.

The silky Tottenham midfielder added: "America now have some real top quality players and that is a huge game for us. Facing Colombia will be a totally different experience from anything we get playing in the Premiership or Europe.

"I know all the lads hope we will get a lot of benefit from both games and will learn a lot for the future."