Rio Ferdinand was dropped today from the England team for Saturday's crucial Euro 2004 qualifier against Turkey after missing a drugs test. The English FA said Ferdinand wouldn't be travelling to Istanbul with the England squad.
Today's announcement confirmed speculation that Ferdinand would be axed after missing a routine drugs test. It was the controversy surrounding Ferdinand which delayed the announcement of the England squad from its original time of 7pm on Sunday until 1pm today.
Ferdinand insists his failure to attend was just forgetfulness and he underwent a routine official FA drugs test 36 hours after his ‘no-show’ on 25th September with a negative result. The defender has not been charged with any offence, but is set to be interviewed by the FA about the matter next Monday.
Sven-Goran has bemoaned the exclusion of the £30m defender: "It's a pity for England as a team - but it's a decision that's been taken and I have to accept it and respect it."
"I'm very sorry that we can't do it (play Ferdinand). I'm a football manager and of course I always want the best team. But on this occasion with Rio it's not possible. I've been told and I have to accept that." He lamented.
Filed by Ciaran Walsh
