Wayne Bridge is battling to convince Manchester City management of his long-term value, it has been revealed.

The Sunday Mirror says Bridge suffered a severe knee trauma when he was the victim of Juliano Belletti's late challenge as City beat his former club Chelsea eight days ago.

And he knows he will have to recover his fitness and his form as City's regular left-back if he is going to convince Fabio Capello to take him to South Africa next summer.

There have been growing concerns at City about Bridge's ability to do the defensive dirty work required by Mark Hughes's attack-minded side.

He has been at fault for goals in games against Wigan, Fulham and Burnley.