Lloyd's braced for Ferdinand claim

The Lloyd’s market is bracing itself for the first big World Cup claim from the English Football Association.

If follows the knee ligament injury suffered by captain Rio Ferdinand in England’s first training session in South Africa on 4 June.

Lloyd’s Syndicate 457, the Watkins Syndicate – backed by Munich Re – is said to be the lead underwriter on the FA policy.

A spread of other syndicates will also share the cost which could reach £1m.

The policy covers a player’s weekly wages, to protect their club should they be badly injured during the tournament.

The Manchester United defender, who reportedly earns £120,000 per week, flew back to the UK to rehabilitate.

Early estimates ruled Ferdinand out of action for up to six weeks but it is still unclear when he will return to action.

Watkins Syndicate declined to comment. The FA could not be reached for comment.

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