Roy Hodgson has reportedly sent Rio Ferdinand a text message reassuring the Manchester United defender of his future with England.
The 33-year-old was left out of Hodgson's original 23-man squad, with the new boss citing "footballing reasons" for his omission.
However, that reason has now been called into question after Liverpool's Martin Kelly was called up to replace Gary Cahill, who was injured during the Three Lions' warm-up game against Belgium on Saturday.
It was believed that Ferdinand had been left out due to his supposed feud with John Terry, who will stand trial after the tournament accused of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
The former England captain's representative, Jamie Moralee, openly criticised the treatment of his client, claiming that the England management have shown the centre-back a "complete lack of respect".
It has now been reported by The Mirror that Hodgson has sent Ferdinand a text message telling him that he remains a part of his plans ahead of the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Ferdinand has tweeted his support to the England squad.
Michael Penkman
