• Euro 2012

Ferdinand faces fight for Euro 2012 spot - Capello

ESPN staff
October 10, 2011
Rio Ferdinand could miss out on Euro 2012 © Getty Images
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Fabio Capello has warned Rio Ferdinand that he could miss out on a place in England's squad for Euro 2012 if he cannot prove his fitness.

Despite featuring in Manchester United's last three games, Ferdinand was left out of Capello's side which drew 2-2 with Montenegro on Friday, with Gary Cahill starting alongside captain John Terry in the centre of defence.

And with Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott and Phil Jones all pushing for a place in the squad, Ferdinand is at risk at missing out on next summer's finals in Poland and Ukraine, with Capello insisting he will not make concessions for England's big names.

"I select the player, not the name," Capello said. "Rio needs to play games. He has not played enough. He only played two games and last week he was on the bench. Sorry, but it's my job. I check all the players before I select them. If the player is at the top of his form I select them."

Midfielder Frank Lampard is also likely to face a fight to secure his place in Capello's squad, while the Italian has also warned Rooney is not guaranteed to return to the starting XI after serving his suspension following his red card in Montenegro on Friday night.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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