Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has asked people to respect Jamie Carragher’s decision to step aside from England duty.
Carragher has stated he is no longer willing to be a squad player after being omitted in favour of Ledley King for the European Championship qualifier against Estonia.
His decision led to criticism on a radio talkshow, prompting the centre-back to phone in and angrily deny claims he is a “bottler”.
Benitez said: “In any situation like this we need to think about what is best for the player, the club and the country.
“If the player is physically and mentally fit to play in every game, it is naturally better for his career and the country or club he is playing for.
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“That’s what Carra is thinking about because I know he is someone who never gives less than 100 %.
“Everyone knows he is a fantastic professional who wants to perform at the very best level possible in every game he plays.”
England manager Steve McClaren is hoping to talk Carragher around before the match against Germany next month.
Benitez added: “We must all respect any decision he makes, because it is certain he is thinking about what is good for everyone.”