Rio Ferdinand signals end of England career by pulling out of squad to prolong Manchester United career

Rio Ferdinand has signalled the end of his England career by withdrawing from Roy Hodgson’s squad for the World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.

Following claims by Sir Alex Ferguson on Saturday that Ferdinand would accept Hodgson’s call-up, the Manchester United defender had been expected to end his two-year exile from the international stage by reporting for duty at St George’s Park later today.

But the 34 year-old, overlooked by Hodgson and Fabio Capello since winning the last of his 81 caps against Switzerland in June 2011, has now chosen to reject the chance to return to the England fold and the possibility of a swansong at the World Cup in Brazil next year.

Rio Ferdinand met England manager Roy Hodgson on Sunday night to inform him of his decision.

Hodgson said: "I'm disappointed Rio will not be available, but due to the detailed pre-planned training and medical programme he must follow it's not possible. However, I was pleased that Rio called and asked to meet with me. It was important to hear from him personally about the way he must manage his body between games.

"This is not to say he cannot play back-to-back games - he can and has proven so. He's out this time due to particular pre-planned details already in place for his programme. I must place on record how I was impressed with his commitment to playing for England and I look forward to hopefully selecting him for squads in the future."