Sir Alex Ferguson believes Rio Ferdinand has little chance of being recalled to the England squad, despite John Terry’s retirement from international football.
Terry ended his England career before the start of the Football Association hearing this week into his conduct. The Chelsea defender was found guilty of using racist language towards Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand last October and was banned for four games and hit with a heavy fine.
England manager Roy Hodgson chose Terry in his Euro 2012 squad and left out Ferdinand but the centre-back’s manager at Manchester United doubts whether Terry’s absence will re-open the door.
Ferguson said today: “I wouldn’t think he will get called up. Roy Hodgson made his decision before the European Championship and I can’t see him changing that. It would be difficult for him now to go back to Rio Ferdinand and welcome him back.”
Ferguson also believes Terry may have been lucky to have received only a four-game ban. Terry will decide his next move once he receives the written findings from the four-day independent regulatory commission hearing.
But Ferguson, who saw Patrice Evra and Luis Suarez end their own feud at Anfield last Sunday, feels Terry should think carefully before prolonging the matter.
“There is a danger of it resurrecting itself because it has been going on so long,” said the United manager.
“But the fact he got a four-game ban, he may consider that is quite lenient considering Luis Suarez got eight. It is time to move on and so should the game.”
Ferguson confirmed winger Antonio Valencia is doubtful for tomorrow’s clash with Tottenham after picking up an ankle injury during the win at Liverpool.
The United boss said young defender Scott Wootton would be part of his squad as back-up to Ferdinand and Jonny Evans.
