Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker has sympathy for Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand after his England withdrawal on Monday.

Ferdinand's decision may have been influenced by a desire to prolong his club career but regardless Parker appreciates the physical duress top professionals can suffer.

"I have an understanding of it and I think every player does," he said. "Not just when you get to a certain age but any age really, the games become so much quicker and faster, there are times when you have to maintain your body and look after it really.

"Obviously I am very disappointed for Rio as I am sure he is bitterly disappointed he can't be here. But that's the way it is and there are players who are going to step in and do the job."