"It's my preferred position and if I do get the nod from Mr Eriksson I'm confident I won't let him down."
David James was relieved to be named in the squad after sustaining a serious knee injury just nine months ago.
The West Ham keeper collided with Martin Keown just minutes after coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 friendly defeat by Holland.
James spent just over three months on the sidelines but fought his way back and has been in superb form for the Hammers.
"I thought my chances of making the squad had
gone back then - I was desperate," he said.
"The possible diagnosis was anterior cruciate and ligament damage and that would have taken a year after the surgery to get back."
Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer, who has made only one appearance for England since Eriksson became coach, said:
"I've had a good last few weeks with Newcastle, and now I'm fit and raring to go in Japan and Korea."
Middlesbrough centre-half Gareth Southgate said: "Your whole life, you dream of playing in the World Cup.
"It is the pinnacle of your career. To get the opportunity to go and
represent your country is fantastic and I'll relish that.
"We're in a very difficult group, but if we get through that, then anything can happen."