Fraizer Campbell has admitted his England call-up has taken him from the worst moment of his life to the best in little more than 18 months.
The 24-year-old Sunderland striker was yesterday included in Stuart Pearce's squad for the friendly against Holland on Wednesday.
His selection marked the latest stage in his comeback from two cruciate ligament injuries in the same knee which at one point left him wondering if he would ever play again.
Campbell told the Black Cats' official website, www.safc.com: "I've gone from probably the worst point of my life 18 months ago to probably the best at the moment.
"It's been a bit of rollercoaster. The last month or so has been brilliant. I've been playing games and to be back involved again is world class.
"There's an opportunity for me to show what I can do and stake a claim [with England].
"I've always know that I am a good player, but the injury set me back a bit. I will go there and enjoy my football. I know half the team already anyway, so it's not as if I'll be nervous.
"Being called up is a great honour and I can't wait to go."
Campbell's inclusion came out of the blue, and for no-one more so than the man himself.
He added: "I was surprised, but I'm really delighted with the news. It's a great honour to be part of it.
"I have been dreaming of being called up for my country since I was 10 years old - that's something every footballer dreams about growing up. It's just massive for me."
