Tottenham Hotspur defender Michael Dawson intends to enjoy the chance to impress England boss Fabio Capello, after he was named in the Italian’s provisional 30-man World Cup squad.

Dawson, one of only two uncapped players named by Capello, has turned in a string of excellent performances at the heart of the Spurs defence this season, and says the chance to represent his country in South Africa would be a dream come true.

“There had been a lot of talk about me being included, but in the back of your mind you’re never sure whether it will happen or not. Luckily enough for me, it has this time,” he told Spurs’ official website.

“I’ve been involved with England a number of times over the years but have unfortunately never won a cap.

“It’s been a few years since I’ve been in a squad now and it’s good timing to be in the World Cup one. It’s a great feeling to be named in it.

“Everyone knows what it would mean to me to play for England as I’ve said for many years when I haven’t been involved or when I have been involved. I said I’d never give up on one day playing for my country and I never have.

“When you’re playing for a top football club, as I have been this season on a regular basis and putting in good performances, there’s always that chance of playing for England. Luckily enough, I’ve got the call.”

Dawson will now be looking to impress in England’s final two warm-up games, against Mexico and Japan, ahead of the announcement of the final squad on June 1.

He added: “I’ve never been in one of Mr Capello’s squads before so I can go there and enjoy it, hopefully train well and there’s two games which I hope to be involved in to get my first cap.

“I’ll just go and do what I’ve been doing all year, then we’ll see what happens. There are some top players in the provisional squad so we’ll have to wait and see.”