Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll admits Alan Shearer was his hero growing up.
Carroll will always be grateful for the way Shearer inspired him to become a success as one of Newcastle's famous No 9s - and made him believe he could become the England centre-forward.
Carroll, 21, told The Sun: "Alan Shearer was my hero. I watched him play for Newcastle and wanted to be like him.
"He was strong, held the ball up well against defenders, was good in the air and on the ground. He had the all-round game as a striker and that's how I want to be.
"When he was my manager for a short time, he was always encouraging me.
"He used to do some individual sessions with me and you can't hope for a much better teacher.
"He gave me a lot of belief that I could do well in this game. I'd love to be as good as he was but, if I can achieve half of what he did, I won't be doing too badly either. I'm still learning as a striker, you don't stop doing that. People talk about what I can do in the air but there is more to my game than just headers.
"I can bring my team-mates into the game as well and I like to have a shot from inside or outside the box. I want to show the England manager and fans what I can do. I'm confident in my ability to score at international level.
"There were questions about whether I could make the step up from the Championship to the Premier League but I've done that and, now, I've got the chance to do it for England.
"Being centre-forward for Newcastle was something I always dreamed of but to be England's No 9 would be special. As a kid, it's what you wish for.
"Chris Hughton, my manager, and all the lads at Newcastle are the ones who have helped make this possible. We have a really good, tight-knit group and they were delighted when I made the squad."