Cole wary of World Cup dream

The left-back, a regular for his country with 74 caps to his name, is aware of younger competition coming through in his position.

Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs has earned rave reviews for his England Under 21 performances and at 19, he is considered a long-term replacement for Cole's regular role.

"A few of the players have started to realise that this World Cup could be our last tournament," Cole told The Sun.

"I've got good young players coming up in my position, so I know there is pressure.

"I have to focus and make sure I do well. It's the same for a lot of players."

Fabio Capello's side take on Slovenia in a friendly on Saturday before their all important clash with Croatia the following Wednesday as England near automatic qualification for South Africa 2010.

Croatia broke English hearts in November 2007 with a 3-2 win at Wembley, costing the home side a place at Euro 2008.

Cole, who sat on the bench during that ill-fated result, is wary of their threat this time around but he knows that victory will see them qualify for the tournament automatically.

"It was difficult to take at the time," added the 28-year-old. "It's never nice when you're sitting on the bench.

"I know it happens to everyone but you're just sitting there, watching the team conceding goals.

"We have to learn from that. Football is funny and if you don't perform on the day you can get turned over.

"We know how big the game is and Croatia will want to come to Wembley and beat us again.

"But we've all grown up since that defeat. The team is quite settled, we're not chopping and changing all the time.

"The manager knows his team and the squad he'll take to the World Cup. People are starting to come into their own.

"Wayne Rooney is playing very well and, hopefully, can play well to the end of the season and then do something special in South Africa.

"We know if we get a good result we're near enough there. It's a great incentive and I'm confident that, with the players we've got, we'll beat Croatia this time."