England captain John Terry believes the friendly against the Netherlands is the first chance for players to push for a starting place at the 2010 World Cup.
England have virtually assured their place in South Africa, but Terry insists the players will not take Wednesday's match lightly.
"The ultimate prize is there. People could earn a place in the starting XI," Terry told BBC Radio 5 live.
"It's a friendly but we want to kick start from where we left off."
England are 10 points clear at the top of Group Seven and have won all seven of their qualifying games.
And Terry added: "It's not just about this game - we'll see how the season goes - but we're looking to stay fit and get things right on the pitch.
"It'll be an important year for everyone. Not only for the players in the squad but the young players and the players looking to cement themselves in the manager's head."
The Chelsea defender also insisted that there is still time for players from outside the squad to force their way into manager Fabio Capello's plans.
Striker Michael Owen failed to win a recall to the squad despite a summer move to champions Manchester United, while youngsters Michael Mancienne - Terry's team mate at Stamford Bridge - and Jack Wilshere have been tipped as potential squad members.
"If you're doing well for your club and playing well the manager's going to have to pick you," added Terry.
"If the young players like Mancienne and Jack play well enough - why not give them a chance.
"Michael Owen showed glimpses of what he can do during pre-season. I'm sure playing with those players week in week out he can only score goals, which is a bit of a nightmare as a Chelsea player."
Terry's message was backed up by Capello, though the Italian insisted that players would have to be regulars for their club to be considered for England selection.
"Firstly, Owen has to play with Manchester United. Always the door for all the players is open - for Michael Owen and all the players," he told BBC Radio 5 live.
"From Owen to Wilshere the door is open for everyone.
"Last year Theo Walcott played against Croatia when he was really young and played very well.
"I think Wilshere has to play with Arsenal. Not only with the second team. He needs experience and to play really important games."
Meanwhile, Gareth Barry has claimed that his summer move from Aston Villa was motivated by a desire to cement his own place in England's midfield.
"When you spend 12 years at a club it's always a big decision to leave, but hopefully my decision can be backed up by the way we play this year," he said.
"The World Cup was in the back of my mind and I'm confident I can play a big part for Man City and go into the World Cup having hopefully qualified with a lot of confidence."
