Hodgson goes easy on foul-mouthed Bertrand

England manager Roy Hodgson has criticised Ryan Bertrand for his Twitter outburst, but feels no action needs to be taken against defender.

The Chelsea full-back reacted angrily to suggestions he had withdrawn from England’s 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier against San Marino with mere a sore throat, tweeting: “Do you think a “sorethroat” could stop me being a part of a match for my club or country #yourf***ingnuts this is what every boy dreams of.”

Hodgson, speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday’s sell-out clash at Wembley, sympathised with the 23-year-old’s frustration, but said footballers’ use of Twitter needs to be more thoughtful.

“I think his sentiments were laudable, in telling you how much he wants to play for England, being a little bit irritated that someone should suggest he doesn’t play when he gets a sore throat,” said the 65-year-old.

“But his choice of words was wrong, I’m pleased to see he’s apologised for it. It just reminds us how remarkably careful players of this profile have to be.”

Bertrand’s Chelsea team-mate Ashley Cole found himself in trouble earlier this month after launching a Twitter tirade against the Football Association when they questioned his evidence in support of colleague John Terry, who was banned for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.

Incidents such as Cole’s outburst prompted the FA to this week issue England players with new guidelines on the use of social media.

But despite Bertrand seemingly breaking them days later, Hodgson does not expect repercussions in this case.

“I believe the governance of the FA have already made a decision on (a punishment),” he said.

“There’s not really a question from the FA’s point of view that he’ll be charged … but it’s a lesson that needs to be learned and hopefully a lesson we can all learn from.

“It’s not a great problem for me as I have no Twitter account.”

Wayne Rooney, who will captain England in Friday’s match, has over five million followers on Twitter, and echoed the sentiments of his manager.

“As a player we know we’ve got responsibilities – whether that’s on social network sites or in general life and we have to try and live to them expectations as best we can.

“I think this week has been isolated occasions but we’re well aware of how we need to conduct ourselves and I’m sure we’ll do that well.”