Ashley Cole retires from England duty after Brazil axe
Ashley Cole was today left out of England's World Cup squad – a decision Roy Hodgson admitted was one of the hardest of his career.
The fight for the Three Lions' left-back berth has been one of the most interesting in the build-up to this afternoon's announcement of the 23-man squad heading to Brazil.
With Leighton Baines' place all-but certain, it was seen as a straight fight between 33-year-old Cole and Southampton teenager Luke Shaw – a battle the latter has won. And it could be a sensational summer for Shaw who was today linked with a £27m move to Manchester United.
The Chelsea man was informed last night that he had not made the cut and, after collecting 107 caps, took to Twitter to announce his international retirement.
"I will be supporting them like a true fan," Cole said, "Thanks to everyone for everything. Baines and Shaw are great players, proved this season, and are the future of this country, it was a pleasure to get 107 caps. Like me or not, trust me it's hurt me to stop playing for my country."
"Among many difficult decisions I've had to make for my squad, not selecting Ashley was one of the hardest," Hodgson said. "He's been an incredible competitor."
The pressure was also mounting on Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard, who has 103 caps to his name, but could be hit by the emergence of Jordan Henderson and Ross Barkley.
Barkley, Shaw, Henderson and Liverpool teenager Raheem Sterling have breathed fresh optimism into England fans' hopes for Brazil, where Hodgson believes they can make an impact.
The former Albion boss' defensive selection looks pretty straightforward with centre-backs Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling included if Jones proves his fitness.
Tom Cleverley and Michael Carrick are in danger of missing out due to their poor seasons with United. Albion keeper Ben Foster will make the cut.