Former England coach Terry Venables says the nation cannot gamble with the fitness of recalled Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.

Venables wrote in his column for The Sun: "Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson is RIGHT to name Rio Ferdinand in his squad for the upcoming qualifiers in San Marino and Montenegro.

"Just as Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is RIGHT to express his concerns about his player's fitness.

"I only hope that on this occasion two RIGHTS do not end up making a wrong and that a compromise can be reached.

"For the player's sake.

"And, most importantly, England's."