Adam Johnson hopes to kick off the new season with the Wembley appearance that will set the tone for the most important campaign of his career.

City's highly-rated winger, who missed out on the World Cup by a whisker, is excited at the prospect of an improved Blues squad competing for honours at home and in Europe.

But Johnno is also ready to fight for a regular international place as Fabio Capello sets about building his new England following the disappointment of South Africa.

England's new era begins three days before the Premier League opener, with a friendly against Hungary on August 11, and Adam said: "I would hope for a call to be involved.

I'm still a bit disappointed even now to be honest that I didn't go to the World Cup, because I felt I was in such good form.

...Adam reflects on missing out on the World Cup

"For a couple of days after, I was absolutely devastated. But the manager had tough decisions to make. It didn't go how any of us wanted. I was disappointed for the lads.

"My next step will be to try to establish myself with the England set-up. A lot of people are talking about changes, and hopefully I can be part of that. A cap for my country would be a nice way to start the season."

Johnno and a squad of City team-mates fly out to the United States on Saturday for a pre-season tour that will be followed by friendlies with Borussia Dortmund and Valencia.

He added: "First of all I've got to establish my place in the City team like I did towards the end of last season. That's the main aim, and if I play well, hopefully England will follow."