Ferdinand: I’m thinking of United, not the World Cup

Rio Ferdinand insists playing for Man Utd is his priority rather than worrying about the World Cup.

The defender has only played 12 times for United this season due to his injury problems and is focusing on his club performances for now rather than thinking of captaining England.

“It has been a bit stop-start,” said Ferdinand. “Hopefully, I can get a run of games and we can have a good end to the season.

“I’ve worked hard in rehab for the last few months and this game is what it’s all about. I just want to play as many games as possible.

“I half expected to pick up a twinge. I was told to expect a setback during the early stages of my return and the proof was in the pudding.

“That did happen, but I didn’t think it would keep me out for any longer than it did.

“I’m not thinking about the World Cup at all. I think about playing for Manchester United.

“My football is here at the moment. And everything else will click into place if I’m playing at United. That’s the only way I look at it.”