The Manchester United centre-half has not made an appearance for England this season and won the last of his 81 caps in the European Championship qualifier against Switzerland last June.

The Football Association is yet to appoint a successor to Fabio Capello, but Ferguson feels that whoever is coach for the tournament should select Ferdinand in his 23-man squad.

"Rio is as good as any centre-half in England," said the United manager. "Him and John Terry are the only experienced defenders England have got.

"All the rest are young. But he has not been in the squad and that is a decision for the next England manager.

"I would take him for his experience alone."

Responsibility

Ferguson added: "Rio has had to change his game. He can't rely on his pace the way he used to as a kid. So his positioning has improved and he plays a bit deeper than he used.

"Now his experience is a vital part of his game.

"He has had a lot of responsibility with Vidic being out. His form is his most consistent for a long time.

"Even though he was more of an athlete in his younger days he would make the odd mistake through his casualness. He had that wee trait in him.

"Now you don't get any mistakes. We don't train him every day. We have a quiet day as we call it."

Ferguson also expects the 33-year-old to spend at least another season at Old Trafford after Ferdinand was linked with moves to the MLS and the Middle East.

He said: "Rio should be okay for another season anyway."