Andros Townsend was over the moon after proving a few doubters wrong on Tuesday night.
The Tottenham winger was called up to the England squad by Roy Hodgson for the friendly with Italy after some injuries weakened the roster.
The call-up of Townsend, who has started just nine times in the Premier League with Spurs this season, was criticized by some certain pundits as he has not performed to expectations at club level recently.
However, the 23-year old came off the bench to score a stunner for the Three Lions in their 1-1 draw with the Azzurri in Turin which he feels went a long way to hushing the detractors.
"It's no secret there was criticism of my call-up, as usual," said Townsend.
"But every time I put on an England shirt I have done myself justice. It was my third goal in seven caps and it was really important that I really did come on and silence a few critics, so I am pleased with my personal performance.
"I have been thinking about that criticism all week. I have just been desperate to get on the pitch and silence a few critics. As soon as the goal went in, I was thinking of all the people questioning my call-ups and saying I should be nowhere near the England squad.
"Hopefully that will keep them quiet for a few months and they can realise the quality I bring to the team. It was a nightmare to be at the World Cup and not play because I was injured. The manager stuck by me through the tough times and every time he has shown me loyalty I have repaid that."
