David James believes the aftermath of his disastrous performance for England against Denmark has been a big "kick up the backside."
James let in all four goals after coming on as a substitute at half-time in the 4-1 defeat in Copenhagen and was then dropped.
But the Manchester City keeper said he has managed to turn his form around.
He said: "The aftermath of the Denmark game was the kick up the backside I needed. It wasn't nice."
James missed out on selection for the squad to face Wales and Poland in the final World Cup qualifiers following his dismal show in the August friendly.
He had an unsual way of watching the Wales match, having bumped into television star Sir David Frost in a hotel.
"I was sitting in a hotel watching an England game with Sir David Frost, who was an all right bloke who knows his football.
"But although that might be something to tell the grandchildren about, it was not where I wanted to be," said James.
"Getting back into the squad for the Argentina game was a big step forward for me and that has given me the confidence to push on and try and do well in the next one.
"The aftermath of the Denmark game was the kick up the backside I needed."
"I want to play at the highest level I can and that means for England in the World Cup."
He said he has knuckled down to work with City goalkeeping coach Tim Flowers and has Robinson firmly in his sights.
But he admits it will be a tough task to displace the Tottenham keeper.
He said: "If I am not in the side, then it will have to be because Paul Robinson or someone else is playing much better than I am.
"There will never be any animosity from me towards any goalkeeper.
"He is doing what he needs to keep his place and all I can do is push and be ready but I do see it as being an easy task by any stretch.
"I'm working well with Tim Flowers to make sure my work is right for Manchester City so, come the end of the season, I might be able to carry that on for England."
James, who has won 33 England caps, believes the side have an excellent chance of doing well in Germany.
He said: "The Argentina game showed how much quality England have. We looked revitalised and everything clicked at the right time.
"So we should be going into the World Cup with a lot of confidence."