The Liverpool right-back has put past issues with the Three Lions boss behind him, and says that the England camp has 'always' been confident of success

England defender Glen Johnson has said that he is happy to be playing under Roy Hodgson in the national team set-up, despite the pair not always having seen eye-to-eye during the manager's time at Liverpool.

The 64-year-old manager was critical of Johnson's form for both club and country during his short time on Merseyside, but the ex-Chelsea and Portsmouth right-back insists those issues are firmly in the past.

"Yes, I spoke to Roy. We had a general chat, the same sort of chat he had with everyone else. There was never any problems," he told the Daily Mirror.

"I did not feel I had to prove anything, no. Whatever happened at Liverpool happened. Roy picked me for his first squad so I didn't have to prove anything.

"I have always been confident in how I defend. Obviously a few critics have not been, but I am not surprised by the way I have defended at all."

He also commented on how Hodgson's emphasis on defensive organisation has helped the team, with everyone willing to put in extra effort for the new boss.

He added: "It has benefited the whole team. Everyone is willing to work that touch harder. At this level it is the inches that make the difference.

"Even people like [Danny] Welbeck, players are tackling from the front. We are defending from high up and that is a good way to send the team out."

He also talked of the rapidly rising expectations back in England - but says the squad never doubted their own ability and can go all the way in Euro 2012.

He continued: "We've always been confident, it was the fans that weren't confident.

"We've always been close with each other and had belief in each other's ability. The first objective was to get out of the group, which we've done.

“Now, in the knockout stage, it's a one-off game and anything can happen. As long as you’re still in the tournament you've got a chance of winning it."

The possibility of a penalty shootout against Italy has been heavily discussed in the run-up to the game and Johnson, who scored in a shootout for Liverpool in the Carling Cup Final this season, says he would not be afraid to step up to the spot if required.

"I wouldn't say no if I am picked but we have not spoken about it," he stated.

"Anyone can take penalties in training but it will come down to the lads and how they feel at the time.

"Someone could say now that they would not fancy it but they could feel great at the time and they might want it.

"It is hard to pick your five before the game. If it goes to penalties the staff will ask who is feeling good and who wants to take one."