James reveals pride
Monday, 24 March, 2008
David James admits he is proud to be part of the England squad, with the goalkeeping talent available.
France v England
International Friendly
8pm, Wednesday 26 March 2008
Stade de France, Paris
Live on Sky Sports
David James has revealed that he sees it as a personal triumph to still be playing for his country, and admits that the English goalkeeping talent will ensure Fabio Capello's side are in safe hands for years to come.
James started Capello's first game in charge, last month's 2-1 win over Switzerland at Wembley, and the 37-year-old is understandably proud in fighting his way back in after being dropped by Steve McClaren, Capello's predecessor.
The Portsmouth star has also paid tribute to David Beckham, revealing it has been 'an honour' to play alongside the midfielder, who is in line to earn his 100th cap against France in Paris on Wednesday.
"It's a personal triumph to still be involved with so many decent English keepers about, and the strength in depth is really good," said James.
"You look at the players we've called up (Robert Green and Paul Robinson have come in for injured duo Chris Kirkland and Scott Carson) and you can see that it's looking good, so I'm pleased to be in the squad.
"I'm here so I can stake a claim for a place in the qualifiers, and although the game against France isn't a qualifier it will still be very competitive and have an edge about it and that's a positive thing."
And James also took time to lavish praise on LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham.
He said: "David is a world-class footballer with tremendous talent who has simply been doing what he has been doing for the last ten or 15 years.
"He deserves to be part of the setup - it's a pleasure to have played alongside him.
"But David hasn't been brought in just to get his 100th cap - he is here to play and contribute and if he can stay fit then he has all the talent to do that."