No South Africa return for Rio

Rio Ferdinand will not be returning to South Africa for the remainder of England's World Cup campaign.

Ferdinand returned to Manchester on Sunday to have his knee injury assessed after remaining in Rustenburg to watch England's first game against the United States.

It had been thought the 31-year-old would eventually head back to be part of England's bid for glory after injuring his knee in a "freak" accident involving Emile Heskey on the first full day of training almost a fortnight ago.

However, having been assessed by Manchester United medical staff it had now been decided Ferdinand will head off for a short break with his family before returning to Carrington for more intensive treatment.

"Rio has been assessed by club medical staff at Carrington this week and is making good early progress from his knee injury," read a short statement released by United.

"Medical staff have advised a two-week recuperation period with his family before returning to Carrington to complete the rehabilitation process."

Although United have not put a timescale on Ferdinand's likely return to action, given the two-week break he has now embarked on, there must be a doubt over the defender being part of the club's summer tour to North America when they leave on July 12.

There would be more confidence of him being available for the Premier League opener against Newcastle at Old Trafford on August 14 and England's friendly with Hungary at Wembley three days before that.

Not coming back to South Africa will be a regret for Ferdinand though given how much he was looking forward to leading the Three Lions, having inherited the captain's armband from John Terry earlier this year.

Even when he knew there was no chance of him taking part in South Africa, Ferdinand remained an influential presence on the training ground, although after missing so much football this term with various problems, he will be glad to see the back of 2009-10.