FORMER Saints left back Wayne Bridge has said he will not play for England.

The Manchester City defender says any call-up to the England squad would make his position 'untenable' and would be potentially divisive for the entire team.

The player released a statement today, which read: "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.

It has always been an honour 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 ex-girlfriend Vanessa Perroncel had an affair with Bridge's former Chelesa and England team mate John Terry.

Terry was stripped of the England captaincy for his indiscretion by England manager Fabio Capello.

Bridge's decision means Capello will be without his two first choice left backs, as Ashley Cole - who has just split from pop star wife Cheryl Cole - is out with a broken ankle.

Bridge joined Saints as a youth player in 1997.

He went on to become an integral part of the squad which made it to the 2003 FA Cup Final in Cardiff.

He made his England debut while at Southampton and even represented his country at St. Mary's in 2002.

Shortly after he joined Chelsea for £7m, before moving to Man City just over a year ago.