© Reuters 2002

PARIS, Feb 4 (Reuters) - France international Laurent Robert says he hopes to win a call-up for the World Cup on the strength of his performance this season at English Premier League side Newcastle.

"I score and I help others score. I think I've pretty much proven myself," the midfielder, who has scored five goals for Newcastle this season, told Monday's "Le Parisien" newspaper.

"If France need a little extra, I'd be happy to be the 23rd man," the 26-year-old said.

"I'm thinking about the World Cup more and more. Apart from me there is no naturally left-footed player for the attacking position on the left side of midfield. Christophe Dugarry and Robert Pires are both right-footed."

Robert has not played for France since last summer's Confederations Cup but he gained heart when the French soccer federation told him to be prepared for a possible place in the squad for a friendly against Romania on February 13.

France coach Roger Lemerre will announce the squad for the match on Thursday.

Robert, who joined the Magpies from Paris Saint-Germain last August for 9.5 million pounds ($13.46 million), says he has played his best ever season.

"Paris would have earned a lot more money if they'd sold me a year later," he said.

"Most of our goals come from my side, the left side. That's a revolution for this club. Since David Ginola left in 1997, Newcastle's strength has been on the right."