English defender Michael Mancienne has insisted that he is a better player for joining Hamburg in the Bundesliga.

The 24-year-old left Chelsea in 2011 to link up with the German club, who are currently eighth in the Bundesliga table.

Having established himself as a key part of the Hamburg defence, the former England youth international has now turned his attention to collecting a senior cap.

"If I'm playing well, the opportunity is there for me to grab. I've definitely improved as a result of playing in Germany and playing for the full England side is where I want to be," he told the London Evening Standard.

"When I came to Hamburg, I did think that it might affect my England chances but I've spoken to so many people who follow the Bundesliga closely that I don't think it should harm me. It's now available to watch in so many different places.

"I'm still young and I've got a lot to learn but I think I'm much more consistent than I was in England, I'm better on the ball and my reading of the game has improved, too. Let's hope I can carry on doing well and that my moment will come."

Mancienne was an unused substitute during England's 2-1 friendly victory over Germany back in 2008.