Everton defender Johnny Heitinga is surprised by the England snub delivered to Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.

Heitinga felt the same about Ferdinand's omission but backed Everton team-mate Phil Jagielka and Manchester City star Joleon Lescott to fill the void.

Heitinga said of Ferdinand's snub: "Yes, I'm quite surprised.

"But then, on the other hand, Phil Jagielka, my partner in the defence for Everton, is doing very well.

"There are no more centre-halves in the England squad but it's up to those who are there to perform.

"I was quite surprised in the beginning that they're going this way and hopefully they're going to play a good tournament.

"Lescott is there as well so they've still got a few good centre-halves."