Sunderland winger Adam Johnson has admitted that he wants to profit from Theo Walcott's knee injury and replace the Arsenal forward for England at the World Cup this year.
Walcott is expected to miss this summer's competition after sustaining knee ligament damage, which has ruled him out for the remainder of the campaign.
Although Johnson, who hit a hat-trick in the 4-1 victory over Fulham on Saturday, claims to be disappointed by the news, the 26-year-old sees an opportunity to stake his claim and earn a ticket to Brazil.
He told reporters: "I was disappointed for Theo, he's a good friend of mine. I came a long way in the England ranks with him, I was gutted for him when I found out he was going to miss the World Cup.
"But these things happen in football and one man's downfall is another man's gain. So if I can be the person that's gaining then I'll be delighted.
"I want to get back to being a part of the squad, if I can keep playing well you never know about the World Cup."
The former Manchester City attacker has struck four times in 19 appearances for the Black Cats so far this season.
Shane Callaghan
