Manchester City full-back Wayne Bridge has decided not to put himself forward for selection by England, in the wake of the recent saga involving teammate John Terry. The Bridge-Terry story led the headlines in England lately, following allegations of an affair between the Chelsea skipper and his former club mate's ex-girlfriend. "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," a statement issued by Bridge's lawyers read. "It has always been an honor 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." Bridge's shock decision comes a few days before England play Egypt in a friendly at Wembley, where the 29-year-old was supposed to meet up with Terry. The news comes as a blow for England manager Fabio Capello, who was heavily relying on Bridge as a backup for injured left-back Ashley Cole. Bridge's decision following Cole's potential absence from the World Cup leaves the Three Lions with no choice but to turn to a full-back with little international experience to complete the back four.
