"I am very pleased to tell you that the full England squad WILL be travelling to Turkey tomorrow afternoon.

However, the last two days have been very difficult.

Emotions have been running high - and understandably so.

This is a big match and Rio Ferdinand is an important player for England.

We have held several meetings - and we have discussed all of the issues surrounding Rio being left out of this England squad.

I fully appreciate, understand and respect the support the players have given Rio. Team's do stick together.

Given the nature of the disciplinary process, I am unable to comment any further on Rio's case.

However, I have heard what the players have had to say on Rio Ferdinand's situation - and on the general issue of anti-doping rules.


 I have listened very carefully to the players. They have some very strong views. Those views are expressed in the players' own statement tonight.

As I have said before, I have to work with the process and procedures currently in place. We have already started a comprehensive review.

And it is very clear to me that there are a number of areas we need to look at to ensure that we do have the best possible system - for example the speed of the disciplinary process.

Some people have raised the issues of confidentiality generally. For The FA, in so many of our activities, confidentiality is rightly a key issue.

We are very well aware of our duties in this respect and I have no doubt that we have acted entirely properly throughout this difficult and complex issue.

Looking immediately ahead, all of us are clear that the match against Turkey on Saturday must now be the focus of everyone's attention.

This is a huge game for the players and for the country as a whole - and I know how important it is for Sven and the players to put the last few days behind them and concentrate on preparing for the game.

Now, let's all look forward to the football."