By Pete O’Rourke
Manchester United team-mate Nemanja Vidic has backed team-mate Rio Ferdinand’s return to the England squad.
Ferdinand has been recalled by Roy Hodgson for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro after previously being left out for “footballing reasons” by Hodgson.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admitted he was surprised about Ferdinand’s recall to the international fold and suggested he would only be released after consultation with the Manchester United club doctor over his fitness.
Ferguson has reservations over Ferdinand playing two games for England and then returning to play two games in three days for United in the Premier League against Sunderland and then the FA Cup replay with Chelsea.
Despite Ferguson’s concerns over Ferdinand’s involvement, Vidic believes his central defensive partner deserves his recall for England.
“It’s good for Rio,” said Vidic. “He deserves the call, he has played well this season and can help the national team.
“He would have two international games, then when he comes back we have two games in three days in the Premier League and FA Cup.
“Can he play all of these games? All I can say is that I hope he does well.”
