Ferdinand calls time on England career

Rio Ferdinand announced on Wednesday that he was calling time on his England career to concentrate on his club duties at Manchester United.

The 34-year-old centerhalf won 81 caps in a controversial international career that took him to three World Cups, but was overshadowed by several off-field incidents.

"After a great deal of thought, I have decided the time is right for me to retire from international football," he said in a statement.