Toure: Bridge will return for England

(GSM) – Kolo Toure is confident Manchester City team-mate Wayne Bridge will play for England again.

Bridge withdrew from international football last week following weeks of speculation regarding allegations that former England captain John Terry had an extra-marital affair with Bridge’s former girlfriend.

The ex-Chelsea defender considered his position in the England squad as “untenable and potentially divisive”.

Although England coach Fabio Capello claims the door is always open for Brdige to return to his squad, the 29-year-old is not expected to return in time to make the World Cup squad.

However, Toure believes Bridge will play for his country again although the Ivory Coast international understands why his team-mate has taken time to step away from the international spotlight in the aftermath of the headlines regarding his private life.

“I think in a few months he will come back (and play for England), definitely,” said Toure.

“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.”