Ashkan Dejagah is worried his World Cup dream will go down the pan if he doesn't secure a regular spot in Fulham’s starting XI.
The Iranian international was a regular at Craven Cottage last season, until an ankle injury ended his campaign early.
The 27-year-old winger has started just three games this season, and admits his place on the plane to Brazil could be in jeopardy if he doesn't play consistently between now and the summer.
“It’s a big year for me,” he said. “It’s a dream to play in the World Cup and I have the chance to do that next summer, so it’s very important that I’m playing.
“The manager tells us every time that we have to be playing for our clubs because you need games to be sharp heading into the tournament.
“If you’re not playing you’re scared about your World Cup chances, so hopefully I’m fit and ready.”
Dejagah has come in from the cold and started back-to-back games in Fulham's losses against Manchester United and Liverpool.
And he hopes he has done enough to keep his place in the side for next week’s crucial clash with Swansea City.
He added: “I was out for a long time and I’m pleased to be back.
"I feel good, but I know I have to work hard because we’ve got some good new players.
"I believe in myself so I want to show the coach I deserve to play.
"We have a lot of players on the wing, but it’s good for me, because it brings out the best in everyone.”
