Jon Flanagan stands on the threshold of 'a dream come true' this week.

The 21-year-old Liverpool defender is with England in Miami as they prepare for the World Cup, as a standby option for the full squad.

Roy Hodgson's team continue their warm-up for the tournament in Brazil with friendlies against Ecuador this evening and Honduras on Saturday.

As you would expect, Flanagan is enthralled by the possibility of featuring in either match and bringing home a maiden cap.

"Coming away with your country, it doesn't get much better than that," he said. "There are top players from all around the country, so training with them is really good.

"There are another two games before we go home so if I get the chance to make my debut it will be a dream come true.

"As we've seen, young players are getting their chance and those who have come in have taken it with both hands. If I get a chance then hopefully I can take it."

Such has been the speed of the full-back's rise, Flanagan finds himself on the precipice of international recognition mere months after securing first-team action at Anfield.

The transition has been eased by the presence of five Reds teammates in the group - plus new signing Rickie Lambert - as well as a host of familiar faces.

"The difference is massive," he added. "It's a lot quicker and everything about it is more professional. There are a lot of Liverpool players in the squad and it helps you out massively.

"There are also a lot of young lads in the squad who I have played with down the years, so it helps you when you are coming into the squad and makes you feel welcome."