Ferdinand, an authoritative figure in England's back line alongside John Terry, made his debut against Cameroon in 1997 and has consistently proved cool under pressure and able to anticipate trouble.

"Rio is one of the most elegant central defenders in the world today," said Eriksson ahead of England's match with Sweden here on Tuesday.

"He's incredible, he's quick, a good header, good technique. He has everything and I'm very happy that he is playing like he is playing at the moment.

"Congratulations to him on 50 caps, it's a great number."

It has not all been roses between the two with Ferdinand dropped earlier this season after below-par performances for club and country.

He missed Euro 2004 due to an eight-month ban for failing to take a dope test at United's training ground.