Redknapp urges Rio to forget about England

Harry Redknapp believes that Rio Ferdinand should forget about his involvement with England in order to prolong his Manchester United career.

The news comes after current England coach Roy Hodgson revealed to commuters on a London tube train that Ferdinand was no longer part of his plans.

Former Tottenham manager Redknapp was favourite to succeed Fabio Capello before Hodgson was given the role, and thinks that the pressure of the international set-up is something the United defender could do without.

“At this time of his life, does Rio really need trips with England?” he told The Sun.

“I don’t think he needs all that aggro any more. He still has a couple of years left in him at the very top level – maybe more if he is not playing for England.

“And if he’s not wanted then he shouldn’t waste his time even thinking about England.

“Concentrate on playing for your club. Focus on that and he probably won’t miss England.

“He’s not exactly been a regular for a while now and has had his injuries.

“Were Rio in his prime then this would be a bombshell. But Rio should listen to his body.”

Ferdinand has also faced criticism for his part in the goals United conceded in their 3-2 home defeat to Spurs last week.

“He has been called slow. Don’t be ridiculous,” Redknapp said.

“Rio could still take most players over 20 yards but in Gareth Bale he was up against the Usain Bolt of English football.”