Click here to read the full transcription from Paul's press briefing

Paul Konchesky says he has been inspired by a very unusual combination of heroes - Julian Dicks and Paolo Maldini.

West Ham left-back Konchesky hopes to win only his second England cap in Saturday’s big match against Argentina in Geneva, and he certainly has some interesting mentors.

The former Charlton man grew up in awe of two of the highest profile left-backs around, but two players with very different personas.

West Ham hard-man Dicks was a hugely-talented but volatile defender at Upton Park who played the game to the utmost.

And Italian legend Maldini, of course, was and is one of the most cultured and successful defenders the world has ever seen.

If Konchesky has picked up characteristics from those two players then he could turn out to be a real hit for England. And he is determined to make an impact this weekend by trying to replicate the success of his heroes.

"As a kid I used to love Julian Dicks and I used to watch a lot of Paolo Maldini, who was a world class player," he said.

"I loved Julian because I was a West Ham fan and I felt he was a West Ham man through and through. But Maldini I think had every attribute you could think of as a full-back.

"I used to watch him and learn and you can still learn off him now. I would watch what he did with the ball, his positional sense, everything he did on the pitch."

Konchesky knows he has a long way to go to match Maldini’s standards, but he has been impressive as an out-and-out left-back at West Ham this season and has matured since his summer move from Charlton, where he often played in midfield.

He hasn’t played for England since making his debut against Australia two years ago, however, and sees this weekend’s match as a fantastic opportunity.

He said: "In the back of my mind it was an aim to play for England again but I thought it had gone for the World Cup really. But I’ve done well for West Ham, West Ham have done well too and obviously I’ve got another chance.

"I wouldn’t like to say if I am favourite to play on Saturday. I have three more days of training and obviously Wayne Bridge is here as well.

"But we will be training hard together and if either of us get that opportunity I think we’ll take it with both hands."

Konchesky certainly won’t feel isolated in the England squad because defender John Terry is one of his best friends and they have played together since they were eight years old! His sister is also married to John’s older brother Paul, so the families have strong links.

He said: "I grew up with John, I’ve known him since I was a kid. We played at district level when we were eight, so I’ve known him a long time not just through my sister. It’s amazing, we grew up together and now I’m back here playing with him. It’s great."

Click here to read the full transcription from Paul's press briefing