It's looking up for Stewart Downing after Kop move
Posted Thursday, September 01, 2011 by The Sun
STEWART DOWNING accepts his England career has been in danger of turning into a damp squib.
But Liverpool's £20million summer signing reckons life at the Premier League's top table will breathe new life into his international future.
The winger, 27, has won just 27 caps since making his Three Lions debut six years ago.
And, ahead of tomorrow's Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria in Sofia, Downing admitted he has to start taking his opportunities.
In good form for Kenny Dalglish's Reds after leaving Aston Villa, Downing said: "It's a big season for me.
"I've got myself back in the England squad but don't just want to be making up the numbers. I want to be playing.
"There's a big championship at the end of next summer. To get in that squad will be tough because there's a lot of players playing for places, a lot of wingers. So I've got to be in form and playing well.
"England has been up and down for me — I'm not hiding that. I had a run of games under Steve McClaren and was then in and out.
"An injury meant I was out for a year and people came in and did very well.
"I thought I did well in some games but not so well in others — and I've got to be honest and say that.
"But I need to play well and not worry about the past. I'll be happy to get in the team and stay there.
"You've got to back yourself to go further, to take the opportunity when you're given one. There's no point in moaning about why you're not in the team.
"My big aim is to do well for Liverpool and prove I'm good enough to not only be in England's squad but in the team too.
"I'm certainly more confident now. Liverpool are playing well and I'm happy with my form.
"The fact the manager put a lot of faith in me, spending that amount of money, does give me a lot of confidence. As soon as I went to Liverpool, I felt settled at a great club."
And Downing says Anfield's youngsters have been boosted by the news that England boss Fabio Capello is finally bringing in fresh talent — namely the new kids on the block at Manchester United.
He said: "I know the manager has been speaking about my team-mate Martin Kelly.
"And the selections of the United lads have given a lot of English the confidence to think that if they have a good couple of months or a good season, they'll get a call-up."
As for the start of his career at Anfield, Downing admits he could not be happier.
And Liverpool's players are most definitely dreaming of winning the title THIS season.
He said: "Compared to clubs I've been at in the past, expectations are high here. You're expected to win games week-in, week-out.
"Playing in a big squad and fighting for my place will bring the best out of me.
"We've got the squad to challenge for the title but it's going to be difficult. Still, we have a hell of a chance of being in that leading pack."
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