LONDON (AFP) - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has confirmed that centre-back Rio Ferdinand will link up with the England squad on Monday.

The 34-year-old was on Thursday recalled by England manager Roy Hodgson for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro.

Ferguson had previously hinted that Ferdinand might decide to withdraw from the squad due to concerns about his long-term fitness, having not played for his country since June 2011.

However, when asked if the defender would join up with the national squad next week, Ferguson told ESPN: "Yes."

Ferguson was speaking after United beat Reading 1-0 at Old Trafford to open up a 15-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

Winger Ashley Young, who came off early on Saturday after suffering a blow to his ankle, was also given the all-clear by his club manager and will report for duty to Hodgson.