Second chance for Agbonlahor

Villa striker delighted to earn England call

Last updated: 20th March 2008

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Agbonlahor: England call

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Gabriel Agbonlahor has welcomed the 'second chance' to make his England debut under Fabio Capello.

The young striker was one of four Aston Villa players - alongside Gareth Barry, Scott Carson and Ashley Young - to be named in Capello's initial 30-man squad for Wednesday's friendly with France in Paris.

Agbonlahor was on course to make his bow in the friendly against Switzerland last month but was forced to pull out of the squad with a hamstring injury.

Capello also included David Beckham, who is hoping to win his 100th cap, as well as Middlesbrough defender David Wheater and Arsenal youngster Theo Walcott.

Dream

Agbonlahor's inclusion was much less of a surprise, and the striker is relishing the opportunity to make his debut.

He said: "It was a big blow to have to pull out of the last squad through injury so I've been hoping that I would get a second chance.

"Playing for England is a dream for everyone and I want to do my best for them. Hopefully I can show Mr Capello what I am capable of."