Andy Cole has moved swiftly to deny walking out on England after being omitted from Kevin Keegan's Euro 2000 squad.

Rejecting suggestions that an argument with the England coach had preceded his exit before yesterday's friendly with the Ukraine, the Manchester United striker said: 'Nothing could be further from the truth.'

In a statement Cole, who has been suffering from an injury that has prevented him travelling to the Low Countries, said: 'I had a meeting with Kevin Keegan yesterday afternoon to discuss the situation regarding my foot.

'I have been carrying the injury for some time now and it has become more and more troublesome and not settled down as I had hoped.

'Obviously a decision had to be made and following the conversation with Kevin we both agreed the risk of not being able to perform fully in such an important tournament was too great a risk to take.

'A lot has been made of my position within the England camp. I can only once again repeat that I am desperate to play for my country and compete at the highest level.

'I also felt that had the injury not occurred I had a great chance of being involved in Euro 2000.'

Cole is now hoping to get the foot injury sorted out once and for all during the close season.

'Obviously on a personal note I am deeply disappointed not to be taking part but the most important thing now is to get the injury sorted.

'I wish Kevin and the boys the best of luck and like the rest of the nation, hope and believe we can be successful in this year's Euro finals.'