Former Aston Villa and Liverpool star David James may have joined Bristol City insisting that he still had aspirations to represent England in the future, but his new boss has told him to end his international dreams – especially after what happened during the Three Lions’ ill-fated World Cup finals campaign in South Africa.

James is still hoping to be called up by England boss Fabio Capello for the next friendly against Hungary next week, after being restored to the number one between the sticks last month for the duration of the campaign. Despite the Italian’s insistence in the past that only players involved in top level football would be considered, James still thinks that his choice to drop down to the Championship will not harm his international career.

However, Coppell warned that it would not only be that factor affecting Capello’s selections in the future, but also the failure of England’s Golden Generation to achieve anything of note in what was considered their last chance to do so in South Africa. The experienced manager expects there to be sweeping changes in the next Three Lions squad as promised by the Italian in the aftermath of the World Cup disaster.

“Considering what happened at the World Cup, I suspect there is going to be a sea change in the England squad.” Coppell intimated.

“I’d not have thought Fabio Capello would use any of the old guard. The public and Press will demand changes be made. I would be amazed if David James is in the squad.”

It would hardly be the greatest vote of confidence James would be expecting from his new club manager.

Tags: Bristol City, David James, England, English League Championship, Steve Coppell