Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp insists Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand's England career is not over.
Ferdinand missed England's two internationals this week.
Redknapp told The Sun: "Rio Ferdinand is a fantastic player.
"Gary Cahill has done a great job standing in for him.
"His goal in Bulgaria underlines what a talent he is. But, when fit, Rio is the best centre-half we have.
"John Terry picks himself too.
"There are certain players that you can't really leave out when fit and I still firmly believe Rio is one of those. He is as good as anyone in the game in his position.
"I hope he is one of our main players at the finals next summer. What is most encouraging about the defensive situation is if Rio is out we now have defenders who can step in and not be overawed."
