Joe Cole wants to help make England proud.

The out-of-contract midfielder finally made his World Cup entrance as the Three Lions clung on against Slovenia to book their place in the last 16, and a meeting with old rivals Germany in Bloemfontein on Sunday.

Cole’s continued absence was one of the major bones of contention raised by former Chelsea team-mate John Terry in his outburst and the 28-year-old still did not manage to make Fabio Capello’s starting line-up in Port Elizabeth.

But rather than kick up a fuss, Cole is happy to contribute in any way Capello sees fit.

“The English people deserve to have a team they can be proud of,” said Cole.

“I still believe we can win this competition. We want to do it for everyone back home.

“It is a squad game. If the manager wants me for one minute I will be there. If he wants me for 90 minutes I will be there. That is just my nature.

“I appreciate what people are saying back home but the guys that played were exceptional.

“If we all stick together we can go as far as we want.”