In an important makeshift in England’s national soccer team, Steven Caulker is set to replace Rio Ferdinand for the next two world cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro. They would have been Rio’s first games for his national team since almost two years had he been a part of them, but the good news is, 34-year-old center-back still has lots of soccer within him so he is most likely to be played in a future for English national team. His replacement decision was taken on Sunday during a meeting which was attended by Rio and England boss Roy Hodgson. Notwithstanding his absence from next two matches, Hodgson confirmed his chances to play for his nation in near future, he said about his likelihoods, “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 that Rio 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.”
He is reportedly axed for concerns about his fitness program; hence an under 21 player has been roped in to wear his shoes. England football associated informed about his withdrawal from national squad with a statement which reads as, “Rio Ferdinand has been forced to withdraw from England’s forthcoming fixtures with San Marino and Montenegro. The decision was taken following a meeting in London on Sunday evening with Rio Ferdinand and England Manager Roy Hodgson. At the meeting, Rio confirmed he wants to continue playing for England and to be selected for the summer and autumn fixtures.”
Actually, Hodgson acknowledges his ability to play back to back games despite his growing age factor but behind the scene whatever happened between him and Rio is not known to the world. Anyways, publicly, Hodgson praises Rio’s determination and said, “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 said: “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. It is disappointing that I won’t be able to play a part in the upcoming games but I told Roy that I want to continue to be available for England and I look forward to working with him in the future.”