Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta hoping for Spain chance

Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta is hopeful of adding to his four Spain caps ahead of the World Cup in Brazil next summer.

The 24-year-old has struggled to command a first-team spot for his club this season, but is believed to be in the frame for Vicente del Bosque's 2014 World Cup travelling party.

"I'm an ambitious player and I work hard to achieve my goals. The national team has an abundance of talent in every position and competition is fierce, so it's difficult to establish yourself," he told FIFA.com.

"I'm being called up regularly at the moment and my aim is to keep it that way. Taking part in the competition would be fantastic for me: it's the pinnacle of any footballer's career.

"I have great memories of playing at the Maracana in the Confederations Cup and now I'm hoping to go back there."

The right-back has appeared just once for Chelsea this season.