Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand is ready to make a shock return to the England squad, should manager Roy Hodgson require his services, according to reports from The Mirror.

The 34-year-old had previously omitted from the Three Lions’ set-up for “football reasons” ahead of EURO 2012, amid speculation that only one of he and John Terry could be picked due allegations of racial abuse between the Chelsea man and Ferdinand’s brother Anton.

But, with the United star, arguably, the nation’s in-form centre-back, he could be in line for a shock recall from Hodgson.

Ferdinand has been playing regularly for the Premier League leaders, and appears to have made a recovery from a series of niggling injuries which have disrupted his playing time in recent years.

There are concerns that he is not a long-term solution for England, but Hodgson may allay these fears in a bid to assemble a strong squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers with San Marino and Montenegro.

Ferdinand has not represented his country since 2011, but has previously said that he would never reject the call if needed:

"I'm no different to anyone else - I love playing for England. If I'm not then I'll keep doing what I'm doing for Manchester United."

Tottenham’s Michael Dawson is also set for a recall, following some impressive performances with the North Londoners.

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