World Cup 2014: Rio Ferdinand believes 'under-appreciated' Michael Carrick deserves to be in Brazil as he is the 'best holding midfielder in England'

Ferdinand claims that Carrick has never been given the respect he deserves and feels that Manchester United's failings might have cost him his place in Roy Hodgson's squad

Rio Ferdinand believes Michael Carrick deserves to be in England's World Cup squad (Getty Images)

Rio Ferdinand fears England may suffer first-round heartache at the World Cup and claims they would be a stronger side with the "under-appreciated" Michael Carrick involved.

England boss Roy Hodgson left Manchester United midfielder Carrick out of his squad for Brazil, with Jordan Henderson chosen ahead of the former Tottenham man for the deep-lying role after an impressive season with Liverpool.

While Liverpool pushed for the Premier League title, United suffered in their first season since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down as manager, and Ferdinand suspects their seventh-placed finish probably cost Carrick his place in England's summer plans.

"He's been under-appreciated in an England shirt and never had the respect he deserves. He's the best holding midfielder England have. He knows the role," Ferdinand told the Mail on Sunday.

David Moyes was ditched by United towards the end of the campaign, and Ferdinand said: "You have to give Moyes some credit for his efforts but it was a tough year - and ultimately Carrick paid. I hope England don't suffer now, too."

Ferdinand played for England at the 2002 and 2006 World Cups, and was due to captain the side in South Africa four years ago but suffered a knee injury shortly before the tournament that ruled him out.

He said: "As a former England captain and big England fan there is nothing I would love more than to see Roy Hodgson's team reach a quarter-final showdown with World Cup hosts Brazil."

Ferdinand added: "But if I was a betting man I would not risk money on England getting out of Group D, let alone making it within sight of the semi-finals."

England tackle Italy in their Group D opening game next Saturday, before taking on Uruguay, who are expected to be tough opponents in their home continent, and Costa Rica.

"I'm not damning their chances completely," Ferdinand said. "But let's have a bit of realism and accept that there are three teams in the section who have a shot at progressing, and three into two doesn't go."

PA