Peter Crouch has reiterated he is still available for England ahead of next summer's World Cup, but the Stoke City star acknowledges there are some perks to not being involved during international breaks right now.
With seven years to the day since his last appearance for the Three Lions, Crouch could be forgiven for giving up hope of a recall at 36 years old.
And while he still harbours hope of a shock return to the international game, Crouch is using the break to enjoy his other passion in life: music.
"It was a nightmare sitting at home watching England on TV when I still want to play for my country," Crouch wrote in his Mail column. "I may be 36 but I've never retired from international football—Gareth, you know my number!
"But now I have discovered there are at least some perks to being a washed-up international. Last Saturday I saw U2 play an intimate gig at Trafalgar Square. It's the first time I've seen them live, so I'm glad that's one I can tick off the list.
"I also saw Liam Gallagher at Bethnal Green Working Men's club. I never thought I'd get to see Wonderwall played live again in my lifetime, so being four rows from the front was an experience — even if it wasn't for the people behind me!"