Rio to retain place against Argentina

RIO FERDINAND is in pole position to retain his place in the England side for today's friendly against Argentina - keeping Sol Campbell out of the team.

Ferdinand was dropped for the World Cup qualifier against Austria only last month, with Campbell preferred alongside John Terry in the centre of defence.

However, the Arsenal defender was injured in that game and Ferdinand returned to face Poland just four days later. Even though Campbell is now fit again, Ferdinand looks to have kept his place in the team for today's game in Geneva.

Sven-Goran Eriksson is understood to have been impressed with Ferdinand's display for Manchester United in last weekend's victory against Chelsea at Old Trafford, as well as his performances in training.

Ledley King came through training yesterday after missing Wednesday's initial session due to a knee injury, and the Tottenham defender is likely to fill the central midfield holding role.

That would allow Frank Lampard to push further forward, in behind Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen, while Steven Gerrard would shift out to the left flank and David Beckham would remain on the right.