Manchester City winger Adam Johnson is so serious about making England's World Cup squad that he has put his summer holidays on hold.

The 22-year old former Middlesbrough man has emerged as a genuine candidate for Fabio Capello to take to South Africa and he is now starting to believe that quite possibly he could find himself a part of the 23-man squad to represent England, especially after positive comments from Capello.

"I hope I don't have to book any summer holidays, and I won't be booking any," said Johnson.

"I'm usually last-minute with everything anyway and if I can go to the World Cup then my holidays can wait a year.

"Obviously it is brilliant to hear that coming from the England manager. But it's up to me to keep my head down, play well and see what comes of it.

"The comments he [Capello] has made about me have been fantastic and given me another boost. Now I've got a big game on Saturday to try to justify his praise.

"I've just got to maintain my form, keep playing well and the better I play the more chance I'll give myself with England.

"I believe in my own ability and I'm quite confident I can force myself into the squad. My main aim is to play for England. I don't think it gets any higher than that."

And Johnson said the move to City had helped his chances enormously.

"A lot has happened in a short space of time, from me being in the Championship with Middlesbrough to possibly going to the World Cup," he added.

"And I'd like to think I'm confident enough to take the step up to England if I get the chance.

"Playing at City with world-class players has obviously developed my confidence and given me a good platform."