Rio Ferdinand turned down Roy Hodgson's call-up to the England squad because it interferes with his "intricate pre-planned programme" of fitness, put in place to prolong the 34-year-old's Old Trafford career.

The Manchester United defender himself was snubbed by the England manager in his squad selection for Euro 2012 because of "footballing reasons". His displays so far this season, though, have prompted the former West Brom boss to have a change of heart.

One minute he was in the squad, and the next he was out. The debacle once again highlights a lack of communication from Roy Hodgson with his players. The only winners out of this embarassing turn of events are Manchester United, and perhaps Rio's travel agent.

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