Rio hopes for Old Trafford return

Rio Ferdinand remains hopeful he will be able to play in the second match of England’s Euro 2004 double-header.

The Manchester United centre-half will miss out on Saturday’s match in Macedonia because of a kidney disorder which has seen him miss his club’s last two matches.

However, he could return to action on his home ground when England play Liechtenstein at Old Trafford next Wednesday.

“I’m fed up at having to drop out,” said the £30million defender. “England games mean a lot to me and to miss out again is disappointing.

“I haven’t played in United’s last two games and haven’t been able to train properly, but I still wanted to join up with England. I feel better but the medical advice from United and England doctors was not to travel.”

Ferdinand told www.thefa.com: “All I can do is wish the lads the best and hope I will be OK for the game against Liechtenstein at Old Trafford next Wednesday.”

end