Rio Ferdinand Ruled out of World Cup 2010: Michael Dawson His Replacement

England captain Rio Ferdinand’s World Cup 2010 mission has come to an abrupt end as he picked up a ligament injury in England’s first practice session in South Africa. The Manchester United star suffered the injury following a challenge from Emile Heskey.

Tottenham Hotspur centre back Michael Dawson has been called up as his replacement and the uncapped players has already joined England squad in Rustenburg, South Africa. Dawson was one of the 7 players who were axed from England’s 30-man provisional squad by Fabio Capello.

Rio Ferdinand’s injury has come as a big blow to England’s World Cup hopes. He along with Terry was expected to guard English defense which frequently looked volatile during their recent friendly matches.

Michael Dawson played a big role behind Tottenham Hotspur’s finish in the top four last season, and thus, clinching a place in the Champions League next season. He also represented England B and England at U-21 level.

Coach Fabio Capello has termed Ferdinand’s injury as a ‘curse,’ while revealing his disappointment at the shocking injury on the very first day of England’s training in South Africa.

Capello said to the media, “It couldn't have been much worse on my first day. It was an accidental injury in training, but nothing to do with the pitch. It's the curse of the captain.”

Ferdinand has had an injury-hit season with Manchester United. The centre back missed a lot of action for his club as well as country. He was appointed England captain in February, but he had to wait for a long time to lead England on the field until recently when England took on Mexico at the Wembely stadium in London last month.

In his absence, Steven Gerrard would lead the Three Lions in World Cup 2010. Gerrard has been an excellent captain for Liverpool over the yeas and it seems he may not find it an added burden in South Africa.