England's Rickie Lambert: "I am here on merit"

England striker Rickie Lambert believes that he has earned his place in Roy Hodgson's squad on "merit".

The 32-year-old notched 13 goals for Southampton in the Premier League last season - one fewer than teammate Jay Rodriguez, who will miss the tournament due to injury.

Lambert has insisted that there is more to his game than just his excellent record from the penalty spot, despite scoring 47 out of 48 spot kicks in his career.

He told reporters: "I watched the last World Cup at home and if someone had told me then that I would be at the next one I would have laughed at them.

"But I would like to think I am here on merit. I think I've proved over two years that I'm good enough, that I've proved my worth.

"A lot of people have said I'm in for my penalties but I don't believe that at all. I would take one, of course I would. I'm confident in my ability."

Lambert has scored two goals in his four appearances for the Three Lions.