LEIGHTON BAINES is determined to make the most of international opportunity when he steps out for England this evening.

Baines will make his fourth appearance for his country after being given the nod by Fabio Capello for the Wembley friendly against Ghana.

It will be the first start for the Everton left-back since being overlooked for the World Cup finals in the South Africa last summer.

And the 26-year-old, who will be joined in the starting line-up by club-mate Phil Jagielka, admits every minute is vital at this rarified level of football.

“It’s obviously a lot different to club football with regards to training especially,” said Baines. “You’re there for a short time and in that hour and a half you train, you have got to try and impress so the tempo tends to be a bit higher and more intense.

“The quality is really good as well. The first couple of times you go it is a bit of an eye-opener to see what goes on and after that you settle into it.

“If you are getting into the national team you are in there on merit, it is because you have been playing well and doing your job well. You just go into the squads with the intention of carrying that form on.”

Baines added: “You just try to integrate into the squad as quickly as possible and make a smooth transition to international football.

“I’ve been pleased with my form for the majority of the season and that is all you can do. The selection process is down to other people.”