Rio relishing return to international fold
Friday, 09 October, 2009
Rio Ferdinand says he is fit and ready to represent his country again.
England defender Rio Ferdinand admits his injury problems are firmly behind him and he is relishing the chance to play for his country again when they face Ukraine.
Ferdinand has been sidelined with back and thigh problems and his last appearance for The Three Lions came against Holland back in August. But the Manchester United defender is hoping to win his place back in the team and play a major role for his country at the World Cup Finals next summer.
Ferdinand said: "It has been frustrating. Over the past few months I have had to miss games for club and country. I am delighted to be fit for selection. I am fine now. My back has not been a problem since last season. I then pulled my thigh and it has no connection. My back is not a concern for me anymore.
"Ukraine have got some very talented players. Everyone talks about Shevchenko but we know we have got perform well to win this game. They have still got a chance of qualifying.
"I don't think I could single out one area we need to improve. Once we finish the campaign and the draw is made, we can get very serious about the World Cup and how we will play.
"We need to make sure we get everything right when we get there."