David James furious at boss Fabio Capello over World Cup opener snub

By Matt Lawton for the Daily Mail
Updated: 07:11 EDT, 14 June 2010

David James is fuming after being overlooked in the battle for the England goalkeeper’s jersey.

Fabio Capello has already expressed concern over Robert Green’s state of mind after his howler against the USA on Saturday night.

But James believes he has been unfairly excluded because of a knee problem he says is not stopping him being fit and ready for action.

Fuming: David James isn't happy about his non-selection for the game against USA

He was seen blanking England general manager Franco Baldini as he walked off the pitch at the end of the warm-up at the Rustenburg Stadium.

Communication between James, the medical staff and the Italian coaches appears to be part of the problem, although the 39-year-old Portsmouth keeper is also thought to be unhappy with the way selection has been handled.

James has the support of England’s senior players but not, seemingly, the manager.

Capello left it until an hour and 45 minutes before kick-off to select his goalkeeper and the choice backfired when Green’s mistake allowed the Americans to equalise.

All over? Robert Green is facing the World Cup axe

On the Green: Keep Robert plays golf at Sun City on Sunday after his blunder

But James was also unhappy at being denied a chance to impress in the final warm-up game, although he chose his words diplomatically on Saturday.

‘I don’t have a problem with the manager’s selection but I am fit and well,’ he said.  

The situation could enhance Joe Hart’s chances of a competitive international debut against Algeria on Friday.

Last night Capello had not ruled out the possibility of sticking with Green, who remains the bookies’ favourite, but will assess how the West Ham man has responded to the trauma of his mistake.

‘We have to wait,’ said Capello.

‘We will think about this problem psychologically.’