England national team boss Fabio Capello has urged centre-half Rio Ferdinand to remain patient as he returns from back-related injuries.

The Manchester United defender has struggled with his body this season and Capello wants him to take his time and get everything right before rushing back onto the pitch.

"It is too early to start talking about Rio Ferdinand's fitness now. The World Cup is too far away," Capello said.

"Yes, he has an injury, but I will give you an example from Italy.

"Look at Alessandro Nesta. He was injured for one whole year, now he's back for Milan, he is the best, and people are saying 'please come back into the national team'.

"Rio has been injured. I cannot say if he will be fit or not but I hope he is. He has told me a lot of times that he will be ready for the World Cup.

"But for me, it's not a worry if he's not fit in January. What matters is how he is in March or April. That is when it is important and that is when I hope the best England players will be fit."

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