Ferdinand dropped out of England squad

Rio Ferdinand has been dropped from the England squad for World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.

It was expected Hodgson includes the experiences defender into first XI for the upcoming games, after Tottenham Michael Dawson picked up an injury.

The Manchester United centre-back has met with England manager Roy Hodgson to discuss the matter and took the decision together with him. Hodgson cited comprehensive medical programme and detailed pre-planned training, designed to help the 24-yeart-old player recover from a back problem, to be the major reason for his self-imposed withdrawal from the national side. Hodgson revealed: “I’m disappointed Rio will not be available, but due to the detailed pre-planned training and medical programme he must follow it’s not possible. However, I was pleased he called and asked to meet with me. It was important to hear from him personally about the way he must manage his body between games.

“This is not to say he cannot play back-to-back games - he can and has proven so. He’s out this time due to particular pre-planned details already in place for his programme. I must place on record how I was impressed with his commitment to playing for England and I look forward to hopefully selecting him for squads in the future,” he added.

For all that Ferdinand has confirmed his intention to continue England career and his desire to be selected for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers in summer and autumn. He said: “It was important for me to be able to speak with Roy face to face and explain the situation. One thing I made clear was my passion and commitment to represent my country is as strong as ever. It’s disappointing I won’t be able to play a part in the upcoming games but I told Roy I want to continue to be available for England and look forward to working with him in the future.”

Tottenham’s defender Steven Caulker has been called up from the England U-21 squad to fill in the vacant centre-back position.