England wait on Rio fitness

England were today awaiting a verdict on Rio Ferdinand’s fitness ahead of the World Cup qualifier with Croatia in Zagreb.

The Manchester United defender was due to be assessed by the England medical staff as he battles to overcome a neck problem.

The England vice-captain was unable to participate in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Andorra in Barcelona.

Joleon Lescott filled the breach against the part-timers but the experienced Ferdinand would be a major loss if unable to face Slaven Bilic’s side.

England are continuing their preparations in Spain today before flying out to Zagreb on Tuesday ahead of a game they cannot afford to lose even at this early stage of the qualifying campaign.

Coach Fabio Capello was today mulling over whether to add Joe Cole – the two goal hero against Andorra – and David Beckham to the starting line-up after both were on the substitute’s bench at the weekend.