Roy Hodgson, Rio Ferdinand appointed to Football Association commission

England manager Roy Hodgson and former captain Rio Ferdinand have been added to the Football Association's commission charged with improving the state of the national team.

Manchester United defender Ferdinand is the first non-white member of Greg Dyke's panel, which was previously formed of eight members, including ex-England boss Glenn Hoddle.

Dyke has hinted that the appointments of Ferdinand and Hodgson have been in the pipeline for some time, and the FA chairman is excited at the prospect of what they can bring to the commission.

He told reporters: "We have been speaking to Rio and Manchester United for some time about him joining the group. Rio's vast experience as a player. He has a huge amount to offer to the debate.

"It is important Roy can offer his views as the current manager of the national team. I wanted the international fixtures to be completed before announcing this to avoid any distractions for Roy."

FA vice-chairman Roger Burden, former England defender Danny Mills, and League Managers' Association chairman Howard Wilkinson are among the names that have already been confirmed.