The Southampton striker had just broken into Roy Hodgson’s squad during the build-up to the 2014 World Cup, when a knee injury ruled him out of a trip to Brazil and for the whole of last season.
After working hard through rehabilitation and returning to action in pre-season, the former Burnley star lit up St. Mary’s with a stunning goal in their friendly with Espanyol on Saturday.
And the 26-year-old has outlined his ambition to fire his way back into the Three Lions reckoning this term, with the potential prospect of a trip to Euro 2016 up for grabs.
Rodriguez has been back in action for Saints during pre-season
"You have got to aim high and for me the highest is to go and represent your country," said Rodriguez, who made his England debut against Chile in November 2013.
"That is the main thing, it was the best achievement of my career so far and I want to replicate that. I’ve got a lot of hard work to do and hopefully it will come if I keep working hard."
Rodriguez knows there will be fierce competition for places in Hodgson’s squad, should England secure their place in France next summer.
A victory against San Marino early next month could be enough to seal qualification and after that, it comes down to form.
"Of course. You always have to look the highest you can," he explained.
"But it’s a long way to go and I’m just taking it week by week and by each game."
