Wolves boss Mick McCarthy has backed goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann to force his way into the United States squad for the World Cup.

Hahnemann, 37, has won just a handful of international caps despite making his debut in 1994.

The former Reading keeper has been in impressive form for Wolves this season and McCarthy believes his performances deserve a recall to the international fold.

Everton's Tim Howard and Brad Guzan of Aston Villa are the current first and second-choices respectively, but Hahnemann could find himself on the plane to South Africa.

"If Marcus is playing in my team then he's giving himself a chance for the World Cup because, whatever else goes on with him, he really has been excellent," said McCarthy.

"He's playing in the Premier League and, if he continues to do so, it would be great for him to be selected. If he gets in the squad, then great, but he's up against some good goalkeepers."

Hahnemann was an unused member of the US squad at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email