Euro 2012: Dutch stars baffled by Ferdinand axe

[dutchman]

Rafael van der Vaart has admitted he was bemused by England boss Roy Hodgson's decision not to take Rio Ferdinand to the European Championship.

The shockwaves from Hodgson's latest snubbing of Manchester United star Ferdinand have reached England's Euro 2012 rivals, with Holland star Van der Vaart branding it 'strange'.

The Tottenham forward added: 'It surprised me because I think he's still one of the best defenders in England, and maybe in the world.

'Of course, he's a little bit older now, but he's still fit and fresh and he played for Manchester United.'

Ferdinand, 33, would arguably provide much-needed experience to a squad already shorn of injured defenders Gary Cahill, Michael Dawson, Chris Smalling and Kyle Walker.

England also lost Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry in midfield, with Jack Wilshere among a host of names unavailable for selection.

Van der Vaart added: 'They still have a great team.

'It's a pity for them that Lampard is injured, but they have so many good players.

'They have a new manager, so maybe they'll play a little bit different now.

'England are always a danger to play against.'

Hodgson has also been criticised for turning to Liverpool duo Martin Kelly and Jordan Henderson instead of Manchester United stalwarts Ferdinand and Michael Carrick.

Dirk Kuyt, who quit Anfield for Fenerbahce on Sunday, defended his former team-mates' selection.

'Roy Hodgson is the one who decides who he selects for the national team,' Kuyt said.

'There's only one decision to make - he has to make the best possible team. I'm sure Martin Kelly and Henderson will do well.

'They are young but they're both very talented and I'm sure they will help England moving forward.'

Johnny Heitinga was also taken aback by Ferdinand's omission but backed Everton team-mate Phil Jagielka and Manchester City star Joleon Lescott to fill the void.

Holland defender Heitinga said of Ferdinand's snub: 'Yes, I'm quite surprised.

'But then, on the other hand, Phil Jagielka, my partner in the defence for Everton, is doing very well.

'There are no more centre-halves in the England squad but it's up to those who are there to perform.

'I was quite surprised in the beginning that they're going this way and hopefully they're going to play a good tournament.

'Lescott is there as well so they've still got a few good centre-halves.'