Watford keeper Scott Loach has England aim

Loach has been called into two of Fabio Capello's senior England squads

Watford's Scott Loach has praised the strength in depth of English keepers in the Championship, but hopes to beat his rivals to an England spot.

The 23-year-old sees Derby's Frankie Fielding, Ipswich's David Stockdale and West Ham's Robert Green as competitors.

"I'd like to think I'm right behind them, keeping them on their toes," he told BBC Three Counties Radio.

"If called upon I'm sure I could do a job if needed, or I'd be happy to be there as number three."

Loach, who has been part of two senior England squads, added: "I've got the likes of Frankie Fielding, David Stockdale and even Robert Green to compete with in this league.

"I enjoy the competition, they're all great lads and hopefully I can be picked in front or even with some of them."

The former England Under-21 international endured criticism from some Hornets supporters last season during a dip in form where, he admits, "things probably didn't go how I wanted".

But Loach believes he has returned from pre-season stronger.

"One good game in every three is below my standards," he explained.

"It was important I came back and started off well and I think I've done that this year.

"I think it's good to get a bit of stick. You can't have everybody saying to you every week 'you're brilliant' - I don't think it improves you.

"Even if I've played amazingly I'll still go through the clips and we'll pick out the bits I didn't do so right."