TOM JOHNSTONE says he has a “point to prove” with England as he bids to make it into Brian McDermott’s final World Cup squad.
The winger played in all three Ashes defeats to Australia last autumn under previous coach Shaun Wane and hopes to retain a place under Wane’s successor McDermott.
He was one of four Wakefield Trinity players selected in a 38-man performance programme last week, alongside club captain Mike McMeeken and uncapped pair Jake Trueman and Caleb Hamlin-Uele.
Competition for wing spots is provided by Dom Young, who also appeared in last year’s Ashes, Matty Ashton, who is back from a serious knee injury, and newcomer Zach Eckersley.
Centres Ash Handley and Billy Smith were also selected in McDermott’s squad – provided as an indication of the coach’s thinking – and are capable of playing on the wing.
Johnstone is determined to make the final 24 picked for World Cup duty down under, to atone for what he describes as under-par displays the last time he wore the England jersey.
“I wasn’t very happy with my performances in the Ashes last year,” said the 30-year-old, who has eight international caps in total.
“Looking back at it, I had a torn meniscus and a few other injuries, but it (playing Australia) was too good an opportunity to miss.
“They weren’t my best performances, so I’ve got a point to prove. I want to get in that squad at the end of the year and show what I can really do.
“I’ve been happy with my form this year although a couple of niggles have limited my game time. I’m hoping now I’m past that and I can really build towards the end of the year and push towards that squad.
“We have some great wingers now, we have Matty Ashton, Dom Young, and Zach Eckersley who has been outstanding this season. You look and there is a lot of competition.
“For me it’s a priority to be involved in the World Cup at the end of the year.”