RICKY Shakes is not about to let his World Cup dream slip from his grasp although refuses to accept he is all but guaranteed a summer seat on the plane bound for Germany.

The 21-year-old has spoken of his tremendous pride at being called into the Trinidad and Tobago squad for the Soca Warriors' match with Iceland later this month.

Shakes admits it is an important step but it by no means guarantees a summer participating in the greatest show on Earth.

Speaking ahead of today's clash at Bradford City, Shakes revealed the good news was conveyed to him by flatmate Charlie Comyn-Platt.

He said: "I was delighted to hear the news when Charlie phoned to tell me.

"It is a tremendous honour to be called up by your country and yes, it makes you feel proud.

"The coach (Leo Beenhakker) had said that the call might come but until it does then obviously you are wondering what will happen.

"I'm really looking forward to being involved. But I also know that this doesn't mean I'm in.

"All I have been handed is a chance to show what I can do and I have to make sure I take it."

Shakes, one of the young guns Iffy Onuora is keen to secure on a new deal, admits he may have to pinch himself when it comes to sharing a dressing room with the likes of Dwight Yorke and Shaka Hislop he isn't frightened of the challenge.

He said: "It is a great opportunity and as I said, I have to make the most of it."

International recognition brings different pressures of course.

He joked: "I think there'll be a bit of pressure on me now to get some tickets sorted.

"There are Swindon games before all that though so in a way you have to put the international thing on hold.

"It's important that I keep playing well and helping the team get the results.

"I'm not going to get carried away."

Town boss Onuora also takes the view that international recognition will not turn the player's head.

He said: "Ricky's not the type to let this go to his head. I'm confident that he'll take it all in his stride."

n Trinidad and Tobago versus Iceland takes place at Loftus Road on Tuesday February 28 (8pm).

Advanced ticket prices are as follows: £20 (adults, senior citizens and students) and £10 (juniors). Matchday prices will be £25 with no concessions. The QPR box office number is 0870 1121967.