July 4th 2024.
Looking ahead to the highly anticipated Euro 2024 quarter-final, Rio Ferdinand has shared his thoughts on England's upcoming match against Switzerland. In a lighthearted manner, Ferdinand joked that he would "walk home" from Germany if coach Gareth Southgate decides to drop rising star Kobbie Mainoo from the starting lineup.
After a less than stellar performance in the group stage, England has been urged to make some changes for their crucial quarter-final clash. Despite a nervy start to the tournament, the Three Lions managed to secure a spot in the quarter-finals thanks to a last-minute goal from Jude Bellingham and a stunning overhead kick from Real Madrid midfielder, Toni Kroos.
In light of their underwhelming performances, Southgate is considering a change in formation for the upcoming match. He will have to make at least one change as Marc Guehi received his second yellow card of the tournament and is now suspended for the quarter-final.
But Ferdinand is adamant that Mainoo should not be one of the players to make way for the new formation. The 19-year-old, who has impressed during his opportunities for the Three Lions, was brought to Germany following a breakthrough season at Manchester United. Ferdinand took to social media to express his support for Mainoo, stating that he will "walk back from Germany" if the young midfielder is not included in the starting lineup.
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham shares Ferdinand's sentiment and has been impressed by Mainoo's performances at the Euros. However, he believes that the teenager should be dropped for the match against Switzerland in order to give an opportunity for Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham to play together in midfield.
Sheringham also suggests bringing in Anthony Gordon at left wing in order to provide a different attacking option and relieve the pressure on the team. He believes this change could benefit star striker Harry Kane, who has been closely marked by defenders in previous matches.
With the quarter-final just around the corner, it remains to be seen whether Southgate will take Ferdinand and Sheringham's suggestions on board. But one thing is for sure, England will have to bring their A-game if they want to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the Euros.
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