Eriksson admits to Shearer disappointment

Last updated : 17 March 2003 By Martyn Elliott

When quizzed about Shearer’s confirmation that he doesn’t wish to return to the international fold Eriksson was keen to pay tribute to the former England captain, but also emphasised that he wants to concentrate on the players who are available to him.

"I saw his game in Milan on Tuesday but I haven't talked to anyone about Shearer," he said. "So the situation is the same as when I came to this country. I accept it and the story's finished. Maybe the reason he's playing well is because he can take days off.

"With the way he plays his football, he could maybe be in the squad. But I can't pick a player who doesn't want to play. And the first thing you need to hear is a player saying he wants to play. Congratulations to Shearer for what he's done and what he's doing.

"But it's the future now, with Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006. It can't be Shearer."