Freddie denies Fletcher rift
Flintoff's side need a miracle to reclaim the Ashes
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Monday, 11, Dec 2006 10:09
Andrew Flintoff has denied reports of a bust-up with coach Duncan Fletcher over selection.
Newspaper reports claimed the England captain wanted to pick the experienced Ashley Giles for the second Test in Adelaide while Fletcher wanted spin king Monty Panesar.
But Flintoff insisted that he had a good relationship with the England coach.
"Selection wasn't an issue for four days at Adelaide and wasn't the reason we lost," Flintoff told News Limited.
"It seems some people must have somebody or something to blame. Things go wrong on the cricket field, as they do in life."
Flintoff will lead England out in Thursday's third Test looking to keep their grip on the Ashes.
Defeat in Perth would give Ricky Ponting's side revenge for losing the coveted urn in 2005.
The 29-year-old all-rounder admitted that he was devastated after England's humiliating six-wicket loss last week.
"I was so upset. I wasn't boo-hooing or anything like that but the tears were there," Flintoff said.
"I was in shock for hours after the game. It wasn't until I woke up the next morning that the real horror began to sink in.
"When I woke up my first thought was that it had all been a bad dream."
But the Lancastrian hit back at critics who accused his side of a lack of effort.
"We've taken huge stick and I can't argue with that but don't accuse this England team of not caring. That upsets me even more," Flintoff said.
"I give everything when I am on the cricket field and always have done."