Gary Cahill determined to fight for shirt under Sam Allardyce

Gary Cahill revealed he is determined to fight for his England career and prove he should be a part of new coach Sam Allardyce ‘s plans.

The Chelsea defender believes Allardyce, who was named as Roy Hodgson’s successor last week, is the right man for the post, but is not taking a place for granted.

Cahill was in the England squad which failed to impress at Euro 2016 and were knocked out in humiliating fashion by Iceland at the last 16 stage.

The 30-year-old, who was vice captain under Hodgson, is desperate to begin the next campaign for Chelsea strongly and secure an opportunity to add to his tally of 47 caps for the Three Lions

“I am excited to be working under Sam. I’m looking to impress him at the start of the season and looking to impress him, if I’m fortunate enough to be involved in the squad.

“I’m looking to keep involved and keep that shirt. I’ve very passionate to play for my country.

“His appointment is an exciting one for us. It’s going to be a change. It’s going to be interesting to work under him, have his ideas and take them on board.

“It’s down to me to impress him and make sure I hit the ground running so that I am in the squad when he selects them.”

England’s first match under Allardyce will be the World Cup qualifier away at Slovakia on September 4.

The Football Association had earmarked a friendly at home for three days earlier, only for Allardyce to tell them he’d prefer to work with the players at St Georges’ Park.

The former Sunderland manager will name his first squad at the end of August, meaning Cahill is set to have three Premier League games with Chelsea to make a good impression.