Capello hopes for Bridge rethink

Bridge has played 36 times for England

England coach Fabio Capello is hoping Manchester City defender Wayne Bridge will rethink his decision not to go to the World Cup this summer.

Following allegations that his ex-girlfriend had an affair with Chelsea's John Terry, Bridge, 29, has opted not to be chosen for England duty.

"It surprised me," admitted Capello of Bridge's decision. "But the door is always open for him. We have time.

"I hope he will be with us at the World Cup, but I respect his decision."

BBC Sport understands Bridge is effectively retiring from the international scene, though Capello is clearly hoping the defender will change his mind before this summer's World Cup.

Terry was sacked as England captain by Capello earlier this month, but in a statement released by his lawyers, Bridge said his position in the national squad had become "untenable and potentially divisive".

England face Egypt in a friendly at Wembley next Wednesday and despite reports earlier this week suggesting Bridge was considering his international future because he was unwilling to play alongside Terry, Capello believed he would be available for selection.

The Italian stated on Wednesday: "No, he will be with us. No problems about the other things."

FOOTBALL BLOG Bridge's situation will elicit sympathy, but it is unlikely too much of it will be on offer from Capello and his thoughts will have moved on almost instantly BBC Sport's Phil McNulty

However, Bridge's statement has shown the left-back remains troubled by the situation.

"It has always been an honour to play for England. However, after careful thought I believe my position in the squad is now untenable and potentially divisive," said Bridge.

"Sadly therefore, I feel for the sake of the team and in order to avoid what will be inevitable distractions, I have decided not to put myself forward for selection."

With England's opening World Cup match against the United States on 12 June less than four months away, Bridge's decision leaves Capello with a selection headache over England's left-back spot.

Chelsea's Ashley Cole is already sidelined with a broken ankle and is a doubt for the tournament.

Aston Villa defenders Stephen Warnock and Nicky Shorey, Everton's Leighton Baines and Manchester City's Joleon Lescott are all possible replacements, although all are relatively inexperienced at international level.

Bridge decision terrible for Capello - Farquhar

Bridge, who has played for England 36 times and recently returned from a two-month lay-off with a knee injury, was a team-mate of Terry's at Chelsea before joining Manchester City last year.

The pair are due to meet on the pitch for the first time since details of the alleged affair were made public when City visit Chelsea on Saturday.

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