Capello won't gamble on James

England coach says keeper must be fit to play at World Cup

Last updated: 16th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Capello won't gamble on James

James: Must prove fitness

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England coach Fabio Capello has reiterated his warning to David James that he must prove his fitness in order to secure a World Cup spot.

Portsmouth goalkeeper James is perceived as Capello's first choice between the posts, but he has not started for England since facing Ukraine at home in a World Cup qualifier in April.

His sole international appearance this season came as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat in Ukraine last month after Robert Green had been sent off.

James was left out of the squad which lost to Brazil in Qatar at the weekend to rest a knee injury which prevents the 39-year-old from training for two days after a match.

And Capello is insistent that, while he is likely to include James in his squad for the World Cup next summer, he will not take any risks with the keeper's fitness.

"I spoke with David James, but he needs time (to recover) after every game," said Capello.

"Every time he plays, he can't train for two days afterwards, so we preferred that he stayed at home.

"If he is fit, he will probably be with us (in South Africa). But if I choose the players they have to be fit - he has to be fit."

Meanwhile, Capello praised the performance of James Milner in the friendly loss to Brazil after the Aston Villa man was deployed on the left of midfield.

"James Milner is improving," said Capello.

"Maicon is one of the best right-backs in the world. He is very fast. He is a good defender and when he goes forward he is really dangerous.

"But Milner played well. He is a good player too."