James is part of the final 23-man squad that will travel to South Africa.
The veteran goalkeeper made his 50th cap for the Three Lions against Japan on Sunday.
He said: “It’s only taken 13 years to get to 50 caps so it was well worth the wait, I’m sure!
“It’s been a long time between 49 and 50 caps and it’s been a long season with injuries and whatever else (at Portsmouth).
“Just to start against Japan was very nice, my first start in over a year, so I was very happy.
“Have I staked your claim to be England’s number one? We’ll see what happens with the selection.
“Joe Hart played well during the second half (against Japan) and the squad is looking all right.”
James added: “I get asked if not knowing who is number one makes it difficult in terms of preparation but we’re always prepared.
“It makes no odds to me. We’ll be prepared for the first game against the USA and selection numerically doesn’t necessarily determine who is going to be starting the match.
“The first 11 (in terms of numbers one to 11 in the squad list) may not be the starting 11.
“The way Fabio Capello sorts things out I’m certain we’ll be in the best shape we can.
“I’m hoping it’s going to be me chosen, of course, but it’s about the squad and everyone will be prepared if called upon for the first game.”
