Andros Townsend admits he is in a dreamland after the astonishing start to his international career spearheaded England to the World Cup finals.
The 22-year-old was again a standout player in last night’s 2-0 win over Poland, having also starred on debut during the victory against Montenegro four days earlier.
But the Tottenham winger believes he faces a battle to earn a place in Roy Hodgson’s World Cup squad.
His performances for Tottenham, after spells on loan at nine other clubs, have earned him a new contract but he said: “In the summer when I was thinking of the start of the season, I never dreamed of playing for my club regularly and getting my first two England caps. It’s a dream come true but I can’t let it get to my head.
“I know if I’m to get on the plane I have to keep playing well for Tottenham and for England. It’s not going to be easy. I have a tough six months in front of me and hard competition for places but I am relishing it.
“I was pleased with my performance [against Poland]. My debut was the easier game because there was no expectation on me. After the first match there was a lot of pressure and hype and I had to put it to the back of my mind.
“Everyone has been giving me advice: Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney. They’re world-class players at the top of their game so I have been delighted to come in and not only play at Wembley but alongside them. I will take the advice back to the club and, hopefully, keep playing well.
“I have to keep playing well every game for Spurs. I can’t think about the World Cup. I have to focus on my Tottenham performances. If I have a couple of bad games, there are world-class players that can come in.’’
Townsend also feels that by qualifying with youngsters in the squad, England have shown that the state of the game is not as bad as some people think.
“There has been a lot of talk about a lack of English talent, but last night there was Daniel Sturridge, Danny Welbeck, Jack Wilshere,” he said. “It’s great for the country, not only for the present but the future.
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“Now we have won the last two games, people will hype us up but the manager said not to let it get to us. We know how good we are and what we can do. We’ll go there and play like we have in the last few weeks.”
