Johnson: Reds first, then World Cup

Glen Johnson admits he will relish the prospect of playing in next summer's World Cup finals for England - but is refusing to think about the competition until he has played his part in Liverpool's own quest for glory.

The full-back is expected to figure for the Three Lions against Ukraine in a Group 6 qualifier in Dnipropetrovsk this evening, with the participation of Fabio Capello's side at the South Africa finals already confirmed.

However, Johnson says he has put all thoughts of the 2010 tournament to the back of his mind as he concentrates on helping Liverpool's pursuit of silverware.

"It's every schoolboy's dream to play for their country at a World Cup," the 25-year-old told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"I think with the players and the backroom staff we have, we can push on and do something at the tournament.

"But I am concentrating on Liverpool and we can think about the World Cup finals when they come around."

Johnson is joined by Anfield teammate Steven Gerrard in the England squad for the double header with Ukraine and Belarus, and admits it is a privilege to line-up alongside the midfielder for both club and country.

 "When Stevie wants to turn it on, he can make you think 'wow'," added Johnson.

"It's good for me to watch his quality close up in training with the brilliant touches he's got, his movement and the way you can see him thinking.

"Obviously there are a lot of great players here at Liverpool and to play with people like Stevie, Fernando and the other lads is just brilliant."