Fulham stopper Zat Knight says that with a bit of luck, and injuries to key players, he can envisage himself making England’s World Cup squad – should they qualify for football’s biggest competition in Germany next summer.

The imposing centre back made his international bow during Sven Goran Eriksson’s tour of America in May, appearing against both United States and Colombia after a raft of withdrawals from the touring party.

The likes of Jamie Carragher, John Terry, and Rio Ferdinand did not make the trip after their season’s exertions for their clubs, whilst Arsenal star Sol Campbell suffered an injury in the first game against United States.

Whilst Knight knows he is well down the pecking order in what is perhaps England’s strongest position, the 25-year-old is still hopeful that, if he continues his fine progression at Craven Cottage, and injuries are sustained to key players, he could yet get the chance to shine on world football’s biggest stage in Germany.

“Eriksson spoke to me and said go back to Fulham and carry on playing your football,” Knight told Sky Sports News.

“It’s a World Cup year, obviously I know there are a lot of good defenders in my position.

“All I can do is go out and give 110 percent and see how it goes at the end of the season.

“If there are injuries and that you never know, I could creep in there.”

Domestic concerns will immediately preoccupy Knight’s thoughts however, as the Premiership season kicks off for the London side on Saturday as they face Birmingham.

Chris Coleman’s side have had to deal with sustained transfer speculation over the summer regarding star performers Steed Malbranque and Luis Boa Morte, but Knight is adamant that the club will look to keep hold of the two talents ahead of another testing season in England’s top flight.

“We’ve got a good squad here with Luis and Steed,” Knight continued.

“There is a lot of speculation about both of them but we are determined to keep them.”