Dante delighted with Brazil call-up

Feb 5, 2013 2:30:00 PM

The 29-year-old defender is proud of his selection for El Selecao and praised Wayne Rooney ahead of Wednesday's friendly with England

Bayern Munich star Dante has spoken of his delight at his first Brazil call-up as he prepares to face England at Wembley on Wednesday night.

The 29-year old says he is determined that having been given his chance at international level, he will fight to become a first-team regular.

"I've taken the first step. I want to seize this chance and show my qualities," he told reporters.

"I'm really pleased to have got the call and I'm looking forward to the prospect of facing [Wayne] Rooney," he said.

"He's a world-class striker - a high quality player. His movement is fantastic. He's got everything. You have to be right on your game against those sort of players because they can turn a game in a flash."

With the 2014 World Cup 18 months away, Dante says he will work as hard as possible to make the squad.

"I'm aiming high. There's no way I'll ease back now, I'll work even harder and try and make a convincing case for myself."

The Brazilian also spoke about the arrival of Pep Guardiola at Bayern this summer, but was quick to play down any hype, saying that his focus is very much on winning trophies this season.

"We're not thinking about what Guardiola might think of us," he said.

"We want to concentrate on winning the title."

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