LAMAR Johnson is bursting with pride after being rewarded for his fine form at Canvey Island with a first international call-up.

Johnson has been included in St Lucia’s squad for their upcoming CONCACAF Nations League clashes with the Dominican Republic and Montserrat.

And Johnson, who joined Canvey in the summer, admits it would be an honour to represent his country in the contests.

The Gulls’ goalkeeper said: “I’m extremely proud to have received my call-up.

“Non-league footballers dream of reaching the first round of the FA Cup or winning the league, but earning an international call-up is amazing.

“It would be great to wear the stripes of my motherland.

“To say I’m over the moon and proud is an understatement.

“Winning my first cap would be amazing.

“I would be doing my family, friends and club proud.

“It would definitely be a highlight in my life and career, while it would be something to share with my son.”

St Lucia will go head-to-head with the Dominican Republic on Saturday before also taking on Montserrat three days later.

Both clashes will take place at the Gros Islet-based Darren Sammy Cricket Ground and Johnson, who has already met up with his international team-mates in St Lucia, insists the call-up came as a shock.

Johnson added: “I received an email and a late call last Wednesday night to say I had been called up and would be flying over there on Monday.

“I’ve had contact with the manager for the last two months and he had been to watch a few games at Canvey, so I knew about the interest.

“But I was still shocked that the call-up actually came through.”

The clash between St Lucia and Montserrat could see three players with Canvey links involved.

Johnson may come up against former Gulls Bradley Woods-Garness and Dean Mason, both of whom also earned their maiden international caps while at Park Lane.

And shot-stopper Johnson is enjoying playing under Canvey boss Mark Bentley.

“Things are going well at Canvey,” admitted Johnson.

“Benno has basically created a new team this season, with only three or four players from last year retained.

“We are gelling well and only just getting started.

“Benno encourages us to play football and injects confidence into all players, which doesn’t always happen at clubs.”