Bridge will not play for England

Wayne Bridge has turned his back on England - claiming his presence within the national squad was potentially "divisive".

The Manchester City defender released a short statement this morning saying he did not wish to be selected.

It leaves Fabio Capello without both his first-choice left-backs for Wednesday's friendly with Egypt.

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The move comes after lurid details about a relationship between Bridge's former partner Vanessa Perroncel and Chelsea defender John Terry came to light.

Terry was ultimately stripped of the England captaincy by Capello, who earlier this week spoke of his optimism that Bridge would continue to play for his country.

However, after a lot of soul searching, the 29-year-old feels it is an impossible situation for him to contemplate.

"I have thought long and hard about my position in the England football team in the light of the reporting and events over the last few weeks," he said.

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"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.

"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.

"I have today informed the management of this decision. I wish the team all the very best in South Africa."

Read tomorrow's Yorkshire Post for more on this story.