Rio Ferdinand names his bold England XI for 2022 World Cup

Rio Ferdinand has named his England XI for the World Cup.

The former Manchester United defender, who made 81 appearances for England and was included in four World Cup squads, gave his thoughts about Gareth Southgate’s side on his YouTube channel: Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE.

Who should start in goal? Who starts at right-back? Should Harry Maguire play? Ferdinand provided an answer to all of those questions.

View who he selected below…

“Pickford picks himself. He’s never let England down. He’s been in really good form this season. You’ve got to look at his history with England – he’s been brilliant and he’s still playing. He’s a shoo-in in this team.”

“He can match people physically and defensively. Going forward he’s ridiculous.”

“He’s the security blanket for the whole back three.”

Ferdinand went with Stones in the middle over Harry Maguire. Ferdinand would not pick Maguire in his side as he is not playing.

“I think he deserves a chance. He went over to Italy and won Serie A. He’s been AC Milan’s best defender. He deserves a chance to go in there and perform.”

“I think Tomori will be able to take care of that side, not a problem. I wouldn’t give Saka many defensive duties. There are so many ways you can utilise him.”

“Mad form last season. I don’t know where his ceiling is yet. I love talking about him because he’s a great kid. Every season he is bringing something new.

“No hesitation.”

After ruling out Mason Mount, Ferdinand couldn’t pick a winner between Foden and Grealish.

“Do you know how good this guy is? I see some disrespect sometimes. He plays in any era and scores in any era.”

“I’m going with Sterling. He’s underrated and disrespected. Mad player. Any era, he performs. He’s a top player. Intelligent,