Ferdinand out of Andorra qualifier, could make next game

MANCHESTER, England, Sep 1 (Reuters) Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand will miss England's opening Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra at Old Trafford, head coach Steve McClaren said today.

''I can definitely confirm that (he will miss tomorrow's game),'' McClaren said.

He told a news conference, however, that the World Cup centre back could recover from a bruised toe in time for England's next qualifier away to Macedonia next week.

''We're hoping that over the weekend he gets over it and is available next Wednesday,'' McClaren added.

Ferdinand bruised his toe during United's Premier League 2-1 win at Watford last Saturday.

REUTERS PDS PM1709