Ferdinand was left out for non-sporting reasons: Blanc

07 June 2012 14:17

France coach Laurent Blanc on Thursday stirred up the increasingly fractious debate over the non-inclusion of Rio Ferdinand in England's squad by saying it was for non sporting reasons.

"I know Rio Ferdinand well, I think that the choice was not taken for sporting reasons.

"But I am not going to immerse myself in the England team's affairs, its not my job, and it is not my role."

"Rio Ferdinand is a very good player even if he is approaching the end of his career," said Blanc.

"It really was surprising to not see him selected with all the injured players they have had in this area. But I am not in the coach's place.

"If he made a choice, it is because he thinks he has made the right call."

Source: AFP