Lescott targets regular England spot

Joleon Lescott says he is ready to feature more for England after starting the 8-0 win over San Marino on Friday.

The 30-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at Manchester City, failing to start an English Premier League game since the 3-1 defeat to Southampton in February.

That lack of appearances meant he had to rely on Rio Ferdinand’s withdrawal from the squad to earn a call-up for the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

With Gary Cahill also pulling out, Lescott started as England brushed aside minnows San Marino, and the former Everton man is determined to perform when called upon.

“You’ve got to keep yourself prepared physically, and I’ve been doing that. Any time I am called upon, I have to make sure I’m ready,” he said.

“I wasn’t in the squad originally but Roy (Hodgson) said he wouldn’t have any qualms if he needed to call me in. Playing for England is the ultimate achievement of your career. That’s 25 caps now, which is great.”

The centre-back also spoke of the honour that was bestowed upon him in the second half as, after Frank Lampard’s substitution, he was given the captain’s armband.

“I think I was the oldest player on the pitch towards the end and the manager deemed it fit to give me the armband, which is a bonus,” he said.

“I’ve had the armband before – the first time was against Norway.”

England’s next match is away to Montenegro on Tuesday.