Liverpool's Rickie Lambert is desperate to succeed for England at the World Cup this summer

Liverpool’s new signing Rickie Lambert

Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert insists he is happy to help England in any way possible this summer, whether it is from the bench or as a starter in Brazil this summer.

The 32-year-old has had a whirlwind year in which he has helped take Southampton to new heights and Lambert recently secured a dream move to boyhood club Liverpool. The forward was released by Liverpool as a 15-year-old, before going on to excel at various other clubs in the lower leagues.

However, he has now returned home in a deal thought to be £4 million and to wrap up a dramatic year, Lambert is also in the England squad for this summers World Cup.

The forward is likely to be on the bench with Daniel Sturridge starting and Wayne Rooney just behind him, however, Lambert hopes his brilliant goal against Ecuador in the mid-week friendly is enough to convince Hodgson he is more than capable of doing the job.

Lambert told reporters: “Liverpool is a dream move for me and I’m on a high from it. But any emotions like this, I try to get the best from them and take them on to the pitch. That’s what I’ve done this time hopefully.

“I scored against Ecuador but there are still aspects I want to improve and do better at.

“But it’s getting to know your players as well. Against Ecuador was the first time I’ve played with some of the lads but we’ve done OK.

“It’s not about whether I start against Italy. It’s about the plan that Roy’s got.

“We’re all behind it and, whether we’re starting or coming on as sub, we’re all behind the manager.

“I’m desperate to do well. I’m a striker and any chance I get I want to score. I didn’t quite score the first one against Ecuador. I don’t know what happened but thank God Wayne was there to put it in.

“But I took the second chance and I was made up.

“No matter how I end up playing, I’m just trying to give my best.

“And if it’s from the bench and I come on and get my chance, then I know I’ve got to do well.

“Obviously, every minute counts from now and through the World Cup and I understand my role.”