Tottenham centre-back Jonathan Woodgate has not given up hope of an England recall but admits it is unlikely he will feature at next year's World Cup.
The 29-year-old has earned two caps under Fabio Capello but has not featured for over a year, with his progress this season hampered by a groin problem that delayed his start to the campaign.
England could suffer injuries before preparations start for South Africa, but Woodgate said: "I've got no chance. I haven't given up. But I don't train all the time, as well, and he (Capello) likes people who train every day, so, we'll see what happens."
One player Capello has warmed to is Jermain Defoe, who scored five goals in the 9-1 Barclays Premier League win over Wigan at the weekend.
"JD can do anything he wants to do," Woodgate said. "Fabio Capello seems to have a lot of faith in him and he's been outstanding, he can make a massive impact in the World Cup, without a doubt."
Woodgate puts Defoe in the same bracket as Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
"Put Jermain Defoe up playing for Barcelona and I'm sure he'd be well known as well," he added.
It was Defoe's first goals since returning from suspension for a red card against Portsmouth last month.
Woodgate added: "I think he's been eager all the time, I don't think he has to make up to anyone because he's a fantastic player - I think that's put him top of the goal-scoring charts now as well.
"Full credit to him, he does it in training every day. The Golden Boot? He's got every chance, hasn't he?"
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