Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has hinted that he may come out of international retirement and help England qualify for next year's European Championships in Portugal.
The former England captain, who stood down after Euro 2000, has been in the form of his life recently, getting both Newcastle's goals in last week's Champions League win over Inter Milan.
Shearer (32) told the Observer: "I would be lying if I said I didn't miss playing for England. I still feel I could do a job for England, in fact I know I could."
He told the newspaper: "I'm enjoying my football now as much as I ever have. There's a great feeling around this club at the moment, and a buzz about the city as well."
Although ruling out a return to the international fray as recently as December, Shearer has clearly softened that stance although he feels his decision to retire has helped boost his game.
"It's difficult because I think I have benefited from my decision to retire. Something had to give, and I don't miss the criticism that's for sure. But equally I had some great days (with England), and it's not something you throw away lightly."
England manager Sven Goran Eriksson is due to announce his England squad for the upcoming Euro 2004 qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Turkey next weekend.