RIO THE REGULAR

Last updated : 14 May 2003 By Editor

Sven Goran Eriksson has added Rio Ferdinand's name to his list of 'untouchables' and is unconcerned by the defender's unspectacular first season at OT.

"Rio Ferdinand had an absolutely fantastic World Cup and I'm still very happy with him. Even if he's not the best player on the pitch in every game, he will still be picked by me,'' said the England coach.

"When a player is in or out of form, it also relates to what his team are doing. Before Christmas, Manchester United were not doing very well, but they have been flying since then.''