Aaron Cresswell is loving life as part of the senior England set-up.
The West Ham United full-back has spent the week training as part of Gareth Southgate’s squad ahead of Friday’s mouth-watering 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier with Scotland at Wembley.
The 26-year-old has thoroughly enjoyed the past few days of training and preparation at St George’s Park and hopes he has made a positive impression on the Three Lions’ management team.
“It’s been fantastic,” he told FA TV. “Obviously I’m delighted to be here using these fantastic facilities. I’ve been here [to St George’s Park] before with West Ham as we’ve trained here a few times. I’ve enjoyed it and hopefully that continues.”
I want to do my best while I’m here and be in the manager’s plans for the near future
Aaron Cresswell
Having been included in the senior squad for the first time, Cresswell is eager to pull on the famous England shirt for the first time, either on Friday or in next Tuesday’s friendly with Spain at the Home of Football.
“When you first start playing football, every boy wants to represent their country, and for me to do that would be a proud moment for me and my family,” he confirmed.
“I’m looking forward to Friday night. Of course there will be a fantastic atmosphere, I’m sure, and it’s one we’re all looking forward to and hopefully we’ll get the job done.”
Cresswell’s elevation to the England squad comes less than a month after he returned from a lengthy lay-off with a knee injury suffered in pre-season.
A consummate professional blessed with outstanding natural fitness, a superb work ethic and wonderful technical ability, the No3 has looked like he was never away in recent weeks.
Now back to full fitness, Cresswell is hoping international call-ups become a regular occurrence.
“It was unfortunate to get that injury in pre-season, having missed just one game in two years for west ham. For that to happen little setback and little injury in pre-season, then to come back after three months, play a few games and get a call-up to the national side is the stuff that dreams are made of.
“The manager has been fantastic. To come here and train with some of the world-class players who are here is great to be a part of.
“The next one is after the New Year, but I want to do my best while I’m here and be in the manager’s plans for the near future.”