England wait on Ferdinand

Key defender set for fitness test

Last updated: 8th September 2008

Rio Ferdinand England Manchester United

Ferdinand: Fitness test

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England coach Fabio Capello is checking on the fitness of defender Rio Ferdinand.

The Manchester United star missed England's opening World Cup qualifier against Andorra over the weekend with a neck problem.

Capello stated last week that Ferdinand would be fit for the crucial trip to Zagreb to face Croatia on Wednesday, but he is now awaiting confirmation that the centre-back will be available.

Ferdinand is being put through his paces by England's medical staff before the squad make the trip to Zagreb.

Capello will be desperate to bring Ferdinand back into the fold, despite having the likes of Joleon Lescott - who filled in on Saturday against Andorra - and Wes Brown to call upon if needed.