England

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Cahill to replace injured Rio

02 Jun 2009 - 15:45:44

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Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan, with Bolton's Gary Cahill handed a late call-up.

Ferdinand is still being troubled by a calf problem, but hopes to be back in contention to face Andorra next Wednesday.

A delighted Cahill told theFA.com: "I am really looking forward to the opportunity.

"I know a couple of the lads already like James Milner, Ashley Young and Gareth Barry.

"It's come around so quickly that I haven't had the time to take it all in, but no doubt that when I'm sat in the hotel room tonight then it will hit home that I'm actually in the England squad.

"I'm just looking forward to going down there and doing my very best. I'm thankful that I have got the chance and I'm determined to take it with both hands.

"I've had a good season and I've worked really hard. I've been in the provisional squad twice before and then this third time I was included once again, so I'm obviously delighted to get the call.

"Making the squad is an achievement that I'm very proud of."

England head coach Fabio Capello is also shorn of the services of David James, Ben Foster, Wes Brown, Phil Jagielka, Michael Carrick, Stewart Downing and Aaron Lennon due to injuries.