Rodwell thought England call was a prank

Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell has admitted that he initially thought his call-up to the England squad was a prank, but is delighted to be included in Fabio Capello’s plans.

The midfield battler received his maiden international call-up for the friendly fixtures against Spain and Sweden, after impressive performances for the Goodison Park club and England under-21′s.

Despite a strong individual campaign so far for David Moyes’ men, Rodwell admits that he was unsure if the news was real or not.

“It is a brilliant feeling,” he told evertontv.

“I was just at home and a woman from the FA called me to confirm I was in the squad.

“At first I thought it was a prank but then I realised it wasn’t. It was my childhood dream, so now I am over the moon. I’d heard rumours that I could be in the squad but I was hopeful more than anything,” he stated.

Rodwell has emerged as a contender through the age grade groups at national level, and has stated that under-21 boss Stuart Pearce instilled confidence in him that he could make the step up.

“I have played for England at every level apart from Under-20s, so I know what to expect. I don’t think it will be a shock, although the seniors will be a bit different.

“But I know people there and they will help me through.

“Stuart Pearce says to all the squad that from the Under-21s the next step is the seniors. A few of the lads have done that already.

“Hopefully I will get on the pitch. I have got to impress in training but I am just thrilled to be there to be honest,” he stated.

By Gareth McKnight