United boss Sir Alex Ferguson – who came in for strong criticism for that decision – also withdrew England skipper David Beckham from the squad, citing a calf injury.

But Ferdinand said: “He (Scholes) felt not too bad before the Middlesbrough game. I think his ankle was hurting but he thought he could get himself through the game.

“From my own point of view I want to be here every time a squad is announced - if you’re not here you‘re giving someone else the chance.

“I’m sure 100% of the players would not cheat themselves and cheat their country by saying they are injured when they are not. He knows if he is fit or not.

“It’s going to be between the managers and the staff at England to sort out. Clubs have got to protect their own interests and look after themselves first but you can understand the gaffer here (Eriksson) wanting players to be involved.”

The Manchester United defender also urged England to regain their “winning mentality” this weekend after after the disappointment of the World Cup quarter-final defeat by Brazil.

He said: “Going to the World Cup and playing in the World Cup, the atmosphere surrounding it and the adulation of the fans definitely makes you want to be a part of it again.

“The World Cup was great and now coming back and moving to Manchester United people are looking at you to take a step further and I expect that as well. To do that I’ve got to put in better performances for England.

“We have got to get a winning mentality again. During the World Cup we had a winning mentality and we carried that on throughout.

“Before the Brazil game we were very, very confident and we need to get that confidence back.”

With Nicky Butt looking set to feature in the centre after his impressive World Cup, Steven Gerrard revealed he is content to fill in for Beckham on the right on midfield – but urged the rest of the squad to step in to help deal with the United man’s “massive responsibility”.

He told Sky Sports News: “David is a fantastic player and has a massive responsibility on and off the field and when he’s not here the other players have to share some of that responsibility.

“I’m confident playing out on the right or in the middle – that’s up to the manager really.

“Nicky was definitely one of England’s most successful players (at the World Cup). He did very well and he deserves to be in that role. Nicky did well out there but I can play in different positions. It all depends on who the manager thinks is better in that role.

“Obviously a few people have said a few things about me. If I‘d been there things might be different. Now it’s up to me to prove I can do it in big competitions and that starts on Saturday. I was jealous but I thought the lads were fantastic.”

In Beckham’s absence, Michael Owen will captain Leeds defender Jonathan Woodgate on his return to the international scene after an enforced break.

Woodgate returns after winning one cap in 1999 along with Leeds team-mate Lee Bowyer, both of whom found themselves in the international wilderness during their high-profile court case.

Owen is confident both Elland Road players can add something new to the England side.

“I think everyone in the team is under scrutiny, especially playing for England, it is understandable. Jonathan has played before and played well. He’s been away a long time and it’s nice see them both in the squad.

“They are both very good players and will want to take their club form into the international arena.

“Jonathan is a very good player. You don’t play regularly as a centre-back at a young age if you are not any good, it is a high-pressure position.

“Bowyer has always been a good player. He’s different to other midfielders, he’s got a big engine and scores a lot of goals.”