England captain Rio Ferdinand ruled out of World Cup with injury
Rio Ferdinand(credit:
Wikipedia)
England captain Rio Ferdinand has been ruled out of the World Cup after suffering an injury in training.
The 32-year-old, plagued by a back problem last season, damaged ligaments in his left knee during the team’s first session in Rustenburg and will be out for up to six weeks.
Coach Fabio Capello said in a statement on the Football Association's website: "It is obviously bad news and everyone with the squad is very disappointed and sorry for Rio.
"It was an accidental injury in training, but had nothing to do with the pitch."
Steven Gerrard will take over the captaincy from Ferdinand and Tottenham defender Michael Dawson, who originally did not make the final 23-man squad, will now fly out to South Africa.
In Ferdinand's absence, Bet365 have made Ledley King an 11/10 favourite to start alongside John Terry in the centre of England's defence.
Spokesman Steve Freeth said: "Rio’s absence is a body blow for England and all eyes are now on who will partner John Terry in central defence.
“Ledley King didn’t have the best game against Mexico and the lack of pace without Ferdinand has to be a worry for Capello.”
Who will partner John Terry against the United States:
Ledley King 11/10
Jamie Carragher 13/8
Matthew Upson 11/2
Michael Dawson 8/1