Adam Johnson has said that he is hopeful that his impressive Sunderland form will help him earn a place in England's World Cup squad.

Johnson bagged his seventh goal of this year in the 3-0 win over Newcastle United in the Tyne-Wear derby this afternoon, adding the second of the encounter after Fabio Borini had fired the Black Cats ahead, before Jack Colback sealed the win with 10 minutes remaining.

"Of course I have missed it (playing for England)," he told reporters.

"It's the best thing of all to play for England. A few months ago I didn't think I had a chance, but maybe I do now. It's a good time to do it."

Johnson's next outing comes with the visit of Hull City to the Stadium of Light next weekend.