Tom Cleverley has said that he “couldn’t believe” headlines criticising his team mate Rio Ferdinand.
Ferdinand was overlooked for a place in England’s World Cup qualifier against San Marino on Friday. There were also reports that Roy Hodgson had told London underground passengers that Ferdinand’s career in international football had “reached the end of the road.”
However, Ferdinand impressed with his performance in Manchester United’s 3-0 victory against Newcastle on Sunday, and Cleverley has defended his former captain.
“Rio has had one bad game in six months. We have conceded a few goals and made a few silly mistakesthis season. But I couldn’t believe some of the stuff I have read about Rio in midweek. He has definitely not deserved that,” he said.
Jonny Evans also showed his support for the defender.
“Rio is quality. He is so experienced. He cruises through games. He comes off at the end and there is not a bit of sweat on him. It looks like he could play on and on,” the Northern Irish defender said.
Roy Hodgson last week apologised for the way Ferdinand discovered he was not part of the squad for Friday’s qualifier, but denied that he said that it was the end of Ferdinand’s international career.