Rio out of South Africa 2010

Rio Ferdinand injured in training and out 4-6 weeks. Words that no United fan wanted to hear. The one hope I have for United's players above all else at this summer's World Cup is that they don't come back injured. It is a blow for England and a blow for Rio but let's also hope it doesn't become a blow for United. 4-6 weeks is the time table we are all hearing which would mean Rio could actually be fit for a semi-final if he were lucky. But he has been sent home as you can't risk carrying a player for the entire World Cup who may not see any playing time. Rio has until the middle of August to be fit for the start of next season, so roughly 10 weeks, which should be enough time. I previewed United's players at the World Cup this morning and had to take the Rio portion out. Check out what I wrote about Rio after the jump.

Rio Ferdinand:

 

Perhaps England’s key man. Rio and partner John Terry have to be in top nick for England to make a deep run in South Africa. Like Carrick it wasn’t the best of seasons for Rio either and injuries might have ruined his chances to be at his best. But those same injuries mean Rio is fresher than most players at the tournament. If Ferdinand is close to his best England will be tough to penetrate. If he isn’t? Could be a short stay in Africa.

 

Verdict: I can’t see Rio struggling to be honest. He should be fully fit and this is definitely his last crack at the World Cup. He is the captain and I think he will lead by example. The weather in South Africa suits England perfectly and Rio has a chance to lead England to the semi finals. From there who knows what happens. But Rio has a chance to be one of two Englishmen to lift the World Cup and Champions League trophies as captain.

With Rio out England are suddenly thin in the heart of the defense. I don't trust Jamie Carragher to play in the center of defense with his lack of pace especially alongside the less than fleet footed John Terry. Michael Dawson and Matthew Upson aren't the answers either. Which means England now need Ledley King to be in the inspirational form he was in for Tottenham this past season and England also need to nurse King through this tournament. But this is a Manchester United blog not an England blog. So what does this mean for United?

Well first of all this is a crushing blow for Rio I am sure. The heartbreak of missing out on what would have been your last World Cup must be tough to take. As United fans we now look to next season for Rio and hope he is fully fit to start the next campaign. 4-6 weeks is an encouraging time frame so let's hope it all goes to plan for Rio's recovery. This could be a blessing in disguise for United as we should have a fresh and fit Rio Ferdinand available to start next season. Good luck Rio and we will see you in a couple months.