Rio Ferdinand has confidently revealed who he believes will be England’s most important player at Euro 2024.
On Wednesday, the Three Lions secured a place in the final of the European Championship together with Spain, after a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.
Spain, as in all tournaments, recorded an impressive victory over France, with wonderkid Yamine Lamal shining again.
England’s fighting spirit in midfield will be vital to their chances of winning tomorrow night’s final.
A host of England stars have impressed so far, including Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer and Jude Belingham.
England qualified for the final of the European Championship after beating the Netherlands on Wednesday
Players like Kobbie Mainoo have impressed in the tournament so far, said Ferdinand
Former Manchester United defender Ferdinand believes Declan Rice has been the team’s most important player in this tournament so far, despite many claiming the Arsenal midfielder has struggled.
In an interview with The Rest Is Football, the former England player said: ‘
Declan has been solid. He has a bad rap, I think. ‘He doesn’t play this, he doesn’t play that.’
“But without him I don’t know what we do. Who plays that role in this team? In terms of importance.”
Speaking about Mainoo, he said it was “a joy to watch him,” adding: “I spent quite a bit of time with his family during this tournament. You can tell their input is telling. Calm, balanced people.
“We know what it’s like, we’ve been out there for England in a tournament. The pressure on you is insane. He’s playing like it’s normal for him – it’s phenomenal.
“He’s a beautiful player to watch. He always does something in the game that you think, not many people can do that. Not many people can be that composed in those areas, under pressure.
‘Phil Foden has grown into it and is showing glimpses of what we see in a Manchester City shirt. Marc Guehi is the most consistent player from start to finish. He is ridiculous. Again, first tournament for him too.’
