David Beckham has led six members of the England squad in a dramatic show of solidarity with embattled team-mate Rio Ferdinand. Becks and his colleagues threatened to pull out of England's crucial Euro 2004 clash against Turkey if the United star is not allowed to play.
Their action comes after Rio was banned for missing a routine drugs test on September 23. The renowned defender submitted to the test two days later, and was given the all clear, but the Football Association decided it would be inappropriate to select him as he is facing a disciplinary hearing for missing the test.
Rio has protested his innocence, saying he simply forgot the appointment as he was moving house. "I have been routinely tested like all players throughout my career and the results have always been the same – negative," he said. "The biggest disappointment is not being picked for England for a game which is so important not only to myself but also to the England fans."
Becks seems confident that the dispute will be resolved, however, as he told reporters he intends to lead England to victory in the clash. "We want to go for a win, it's a simple as that," declared the 28-year-old. "I've had a few problems with an injury but that is not going to be any problem."
And one England fan who is hoping the footie ace can make good on his pledge is the Queen of Pop herself. Madonna and her soccer-mad husband Guy have invited friends over to their London home to watch the fixture on Saturday.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
