Sunderland fullback Phil Bardsley still has England hopes, despite interest from Scotland boss Craig Levein.

England boss Fabio Capello ran the rule over the Black Cats' full-back at Fulham as he looks for defensive cover ahead of this summer's World Cup.

Bardsley, however, will keep his options open. "If they really want me, they know where I am," said the former Manchester United youngster, whose father was born in Glasgow. "I am English, but if another country wanted me to play for them, I would be happy to listen. They should contact me."

He added: "The only time it has previously come up was when Sir Alex Ferguson locked me in a room with Walter Smith when I was 18. It was a bit scary.

"I was only young and it was a big commitment, but I decided to keep my options open."