David Bernstein, chairman of England’s Football Association, on Monday revealed that Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has apologized to him personally for his offensive Twitter tirade that was directed at FA officials last Friday. He also said the decision as to whether Cole would play for England in this week’s World Cup qualifier against San Marino rests with Manager Roy Hodgson.

On Monday, Cole was charged with misconduct by the FA for the Twitter outburst in which he responded angrily to the FA disciplinary commission report that cast into doubt the evidence he had given in support of teammate John Terry during his racism trial.  

Speaking to Radio 5 Live, Bernstein said Cole “apologized immediately on Friday and he came to see me last night and apologized to me personally. He showed real contrition. He said he was really sorry. He is free to play for England over the coming matches. It is up to the manager to decide whether he plays or not."

Asked whether Cole would captain England for what would be his 100th cap against Poland next Tuesday, Bernstein said: "To be absolutely honest I doubt it. We've expressed a view on what we need with regard to a captain and I doubt it, but we'll see.”