Ferdinand a doubt for Croatia revenge mission

Rio Ferdinand out of England's World Cup qualifier in Andorra, Fabio Capello "hopeful" defender can play in Croatia

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Friday, 05, Sep 2008 10:46

Rio Ferdinand has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifier with Andorra tomorrow, and is a doubt for next Wednesday's fixture in Croatia.

England manager Fabio Capello ruled the Manchester United defender out of the trip to Barcelona on Friday due to a back injury, but he said he was "hopeful" he could play a part in Zagreb.

Joleon Lescott is the likeliest candidate to replace Ferdinand in central defence alongside captain John Terry in what is Capello's first competitive match since taking charge in the new year.

England are expected to comfortably beat minnows Andorra in their group six opener tomorrow evening, but Croatia – who beat England twice to qualify for Euro 2008 at their expense – will provide a sterner test.

England XI to play Andorra (probable)

David James (GK), Ashley Cole, Joleon Lescott, John Terry, West Brown, Gareth Barry, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Theo Walcott, Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe.