World Cup qualifiers: Rio Ferdinand withdraws from England squad

Manchester United centre back Rio Ferdinand has withdrawn from England's squad before their World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro. The player had a meeting on Sunday with England boss Roy Hodgson and the decision was taken as a result of those discussions. However, Ferdinand confirmed he wants to continue playing for England. "I'm disappointed Rio will not be available, but due to the detailed medical programme he must follow it's not possible," said Hodgson. Ferdinand said in an official statement: "It was important for me to be able to speak with Roy face to face and explain the situation, and one thing I made clear was that my passion and commitment to represent my country is as strong as ever." Then the player reacted on Twitter to criticise former players who suggested his pulling out of the England squad could mean the end of his international career: "I thought these ex-sportsman who have experience with injuries and maintenance would know better than to chat rubbish like they are doing." Tottenham's Steven Caulker will be moved from the Under-21 squad to the senior squad to replace Ferdinand. "I was pleased that Rio called and asked to meet with me," Hodgson said. "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." Ferdinand's last England appearance was in the 2-2 draw against Switzerland in June 2011. Ferdinand's withdrawal leaves England with just a few viable options at centre-back, with Caulker joining Chris Smalling and Joleon Lescott in the squad. England play San Marino on Friday, 22 March, before travelling to Montenegro on Tuesday, 26 March for a game that could determine the winner of Group H. Here are the odds at Bet365 for the San Marino match: San Marino win - 50/1 Draw - 16/1 England win - 1/100