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World Cup: England boss Roy Hodgson to reassess options after Rio Ferdinand withdrawal

Image: Roy Hodgson: Defensive dilemma for England boss

England boss Roy Hodgson will reassess his defensive options after Rio Ferdinand was forced to withdraw from the squad for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.

'Gutted'

Ferdinand had been desperate to resume his 81-cap international career, but accepted it was not worth the risk and travelled to London on Sunday to tell Hodgson in person. "I'm gutted I had to pull out of England squad," Ferdinand said. "But it was the right decision for my intricate pre-planned programme. "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 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." Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has expressed his disappointment at Ferdinand's withdrawal but backed the Manchester United man to play for his country again, while he says the other players in the squad can fill the void. "He plays for a club like Manchester United so the experience that he can bring to us from his club team and the level he plays at - Champions League football - would be brilliant," said Oxlade-Chamberlain.

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