David James yesterday insisted he will not retire from international despite him turning 40 before the start of next season.
The England goalkeeper is currently without a club after his contract at Portsmouth expired this month, but hopes to retain his place in the national squad. In reality James’ 53rd cap against Germany was almost certainly his last, as he is coming under pressure from young goalkeepers and only established himself as England’s No 1 during the World Cup be default.
Fabio Capello picked Robert Green for England’s opening match against the United States and Joe Hart is likely to start their next match against Hungary in August whoever is manager. James will not make life easy for the man in charge, following the example of David Beckham and Gary Neville by refusing to walk away.
“This was my first tournament and I didn’t want to go,” James said. “There will never be a retirement from me as long as I’m playing football. I’ve seen the younger goalkeepers we’ve got and some of are pretty good. Hopefully, they will put themselves in the position and do the right thing for England.”
James made a point of apologising to England’s fans for the side’s early exit, and backed Argentina to gain some semblance of revenge on their behalf by beating Germany in Saturday’s quarter final.
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“I apologise for us going home early.” James said. “I met a few and there’s been a lot of travelling and cost involved. We’re gutted for them as well ourselves for going out at this stage and the manner we did.
“Germany give the opposition opportunities. If Argentina play well I know who my money would be on. They give too many opportunities and there is vulnerability there. Unfortunately we only unlocked Germany twice and one of them didn’t count.”