SUNDERLAND midfielder Dwight Yorke has been left out of the Trinidad & Tobago team that will face England on Sunday.

Yorke, who played for the Soca Warriors at the 2006 World Cup, retired last year but had been invited to play in the match by the country's football federation.

However, the 36-year-old only responded to the invitation this week, and head coach Francisco Maturana has opted to stick with a younger team.

Maturana, who has also decided not to recall former Rangers midfielder Russell Latapy, said: "We see this as a very important preparation match against England and we want to use the players who will be part of the squad that will help us get to the next World Cup. This is not an exhibition match.

"I have a lot of respect for Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy. I have seen them play and they are fantastic players, but we are working towards the next World Cup."

Yorke will meet the teams before the match in Trinidad along with cricket legend Brian Lara.

Sunderland team-mates Kenwyne Jones and Carlos Edwards will be in Trinidad & Tobago's starting line-up, along with former Black Cat Stern John, who has scored 67 goals for his country.

Trinidad & Tobago-based midfielder Aurtis Whitley will captain the side.

** READ TOMORROW'S NORTHERN ECHO FOR DAY ONE OF A THREE- PART INVESTIGATION INTO SUNDERLAND'S FOOTBALLING LINKS WITH TRINIDAD & TOBAGO **