"Further to a scan arranged by the England medical staff immediately after training on Friday afternoon, Rio has been ruled out for 4-6 weeks and will therefore unfortunately miss the World Cup," the FA said in a statement.

The FA also said that Liverpool's Steven Gerrard will take over as England captain during the South Africa finals.

Meanwhile, Ferdinand's replacement will be Tottenham center-half Michael Dawson, who is set to fly to South Africa on Friday.

Ferdinand had a dismal campaign riddles with injuries at Manchester United last season.

England manager Fabio Capello could turn to either Ledley King or Jamie Carragher to partner John Terry at the heart of defense.