Tottenham fullback Kyle Walker was always confident of making the England squad.

Walker has made the breakthrough at international level this season.

"I always thought that I could do it, I just needed to be given the chance to prove to the gaffer here and to the supporters that I can play for Tottenham and I can play in the Premier League," he said.

The 21-year-old has taken giant strides forward this season, but he is quick to acknowledge that loan spells away from White Hart Lane last term have helped to shape his career.

"I went to QPR, who were top of the Championship, and they were unbeaten in a few when I went there, so it was good to get the confidence that I needed," he added.

"Then I got the Aston Villa chance, which was a massive step in my career. I owe a lot to Gerard Houllier, who was the gaffer there then, for putting trust in me."