South Africa World Cup news: Pearce plays down Terry, Bridge situation

23/02/2010

The situation between Wayne Bridge and John Terry will cause no acrimony for England at the South Africa World Cup, according to Stuart Pearce.

Former Three Lions legend Pearce, who is a member of Fabio Capello's backroom staff, moved to calm fears that dressing room morale will be damaged if the two players are selected for the tournament.

Both are expected to be named in the squad to face African Nations Cup winners Egypt at Wembley on March 3rd 2010, with first-choice left-back Ashley Cole ruled out for the foreseeable future after suffering an ankle injury in Chelsea's clash 2-1 defeat to Everton earlier this month.

Pearce expressed confidence that Terry and Bridge will be professional enough to put their differences behind them if they appear together at the South Africa World Cup.

He said: "Forever and a day there have been individuals in dressing rooms who don't get on with each other.

"But you leave all that to one side when you turn up to represent your country."

Posted by Sam Smith