• World Cup

Toure backs Wayne Bridge to return for England

ESPN Soccernet staff
March 3, 2010
Wayne Bridge's heart is not in it for England says Kolo Toure © Getty Images
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Kolo Toure fully expects his Manchester City team-mate Wayne Bridge to return to the England fold despite withdrawing his services ahead of the World Cup finals.

Bridge announced his decision last week, explaining his position in the squad was "untenable and potentially divisive" following allegations that former captain John Terry conducted an affair with his former partner.

The decision has left Fabio Capello with problems at left back given Ashley Cole's participation at the World Cup has been placed in doubt by a broken foot. Stephen Warnock and Leighton Baines were both called up for Wednesday's international friendly against Egypt.

But Toure, who will represent Ivory Coast in South Africa, feels Bridge has not definitively turned his back on representing England.

"I think in a few months he will come back [and play for England], definitely," Toure said. "Everyone is proud to play for their country, but it has been a difficult situation for him.

"Family life is so important, and if you are happy in your family life then you can play better in your football. Wayne is honest. When you do something you need to do it with your heart, and if your heart is not there you need to think about it.

"I think first he just needs some time to forget about this whole difficult period. And of course he is a good left back, he has shown that with Manchester City and he will show that again."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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