SUNDERLAND striker Kevin Phillips is hoping his international prospects will benefit from the new England regime.

Phillips has played for his country just five times, despite scoring 40 Premiership goals in 17 months.

Despite being a regular squad man, Phillips is disappointed at the lack of starting opportunities he has been given. But he believes that could be about to change.

The striker told SkySports.com: ''I understand that Tord Grip (Sven-Goran Eriksson's assistant) has been to a few of our games, to look at myself, Michael Gray and Gavin McCann.

''I feel this manager will come in and definitely give players a chance and maybe change it around.

''What I have to keep doing is playing well and hopefully scoring, and who knows?''

Phillips admitted a recent goal drought affected his chances of playing in November's friendly international with Italy in Turin.

He continued: ''Against Italy I probably didn't deserve to be on the bench, the way my form with Sunderland was going.''

But after taking his tally of goals for this season to 12 with five in three games since Boxing Day, the 27-year-old is itching to become a regular at international level.

The striker added: ''I have been in every squad now since I made my debut and have been fortunate enough to pull on that white shirt and play for my country and it is a fantastic feeling.

''It is a feeling I would like to sample again and I'm sure if I keep plugging away it is a new era for England, a new start. Hopefully I may get my chance."

But he knows he has to keep scoring for the Wearsiders if his disappointment is not to continue.

Peter Reid's men are level on points with second-placed Arsenal after picking up 22 points from their last 27 and dreaming of playing in Europe for the first time in 27 years.

Phillips admitted: ''It is important I keep on my toes at Sunderland.

''Staying in the top three and getting a European spot would be fantastic not just for the players but for the supporters.

''The club deserves a run in Europe. We are big enough, we've got the support for it and it would be great.

''To get into Europe and play for England would be fantastic.'