Ivan Toney says he will not let his opportunity with England pass him by with the World Cup squad less than two months away from being selected.
The Brentford striker has been handed his maiden call-up by Gareth Southgate ahead of Nations League fixtures against Italy and Germany this month.
Toney has never featured for the England youth teams, but since Brentford’s promotion to the Premier League, has caught the eye of the England manager.
It is the realisation of a lifelong dream for the striker, who is determined to take the opportunity he now has with the opportunity to go to the World Cup in Qatar on the horizon.
“I never doubted it. I have full confidence in myself, I feel like I have to keep working hard and it makes it that much sweeter when you get the chance,” Toney told a press conference on Tuesday.
“This is my opportunity now. I’m excited and confident for it and I’m very hungry. I’ve been working for this moment and it’s here now. I’m not going to let it go by me. I’m going to take it with both hands and make the most of the opportunity I have.
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“There’s never pressure – I don’t think I’ve ever felt pressure in my career up to date. It’s more excitement and it’s such a privilege to be playing alongside such quality players and represent my country. I’ll go with the flow and hopefully make the most of it.
When asked what Southgate has told him so far, Toney revealed: “Just be yourself, you’re here for a reason and you’re not here to make up the numbers. Just do what’s got you here and be yourself. Toney eligible to play for England and Jamaica, chose to pitch tent with the Three Lions as opposed to the reggae boyz