Football - FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFYING GROUP SIX: Common bond of defensive rivals.

Byline: BY JOHN CURTIS 

JOHN TERRY has revealed the close bond between England's posse of centre-backs as Rio Ferdinand prepares to step back into the firing line for Wednesday's final World Cup qualifier with Poland at Old Trafford.

The battle for a place in Sven-Goran Eriksson's first XI is at its most intense at the heart of the defence with Terry, Ferdinand, Sol Campbell plus the versatile duo of Jamie Carragher and Ledley King all genuine contenders.

It was Manchester United star Ferdinand who was axed for Saturday's qualifier with Austria on his home ground after below-par displays for club and country this season.

Campbell's hamstring injury means Ferdinand is likely to be brought back into the side against the Poles when England will look for the victory which will enable them to top the group.

But, while the competition is fierce, Terry insisted there was no ill feeling but instead an 'all for one, one for all' mentality among the defensive quintet in wanting whoever is chosen to help England to World Cup glory.

Terry said: "We all want to play - but we all get on well. Before the Austrian game all the other lads who were not playing made a point of coming up to us and wishing us all the best and good luck.

"At the end of the day we are a team no matter who is playing. It was the same for me against Wales. I was out injured and I went around and wished everyone good luck and all the lads do the same.

"If it was me who had been left out, I would have been disappointed and Rio was exactly the same."

Asked about his own display against Austria, Terry added: "I was pleased with my performance. It meant an awful lot to me to get the nod to be playing from Sven. There is nothing better than to be playing for your country.

"To get chosen in front of so many great centre-halves was good for me, not only Rio but also Ledley King and Jamie Carragher as well. We've got so many good players. We are fortunate