Andy Johnson has been called into Sven-Goran Erikkson’s squad for England’s friendly match against the Netherlands on Wednesday.
The Eagles striker has made himself impossible to ignore this season, and is only two goals behind Thierry Henry in the race for the Premiership golden boot.
Now he’ll get the chance to impress in the international set-up, and – given Erikkson’s free use of subs in friendlies – should get at least a run-out during the match at Villa Park.
Sven has been keeping a careful eye on the Palace front-man for some months, and revealed why he felt the time was right to call up the 23-year-old.
"He has pace and is a goalscorer, so I've been watching him for some time for Crystal Palace and now I have the chance to take a closer look at him when he is with us this week," Sven said.
"The pace he has is very important in modern international football. He has a lot of it and that is a big thing. He also works very hard for the team and technically he has good ability with the ball at his feet.
"Another quality is his bravery. He is happy to play on his own and work for his chances and take the tackles. These are all good qualities and he seems intelligent too. It helps if you are clever in life and international football is no different to that.
"He was very near to coming into the squad last time and now he's here."
Full England squad
Goal:
Robinson, James, Green
Defence:
G Neville, A Cole, G Johnson, Carragher, Bridge, King, Terry, Upson
Midfield:
Beckham, Lampard, Hargreaves, Jenas, J Cole, S Wright-Phillips, Gerrard, Downing, Dyer
Attack:
Owen, Rooney, Defoe, A Johnson