Rio Ferdinand names his preferred England starting XI for Euro 2024 as shock player included

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has picked his preferred starting XI ahead of Euro 2024.

Next Sunday, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions will begin their quest to win Euro 2024.

After losing in the final against Italy three years ago, England players will look to go one step further this time around.

On Thursday afternoon, Southgate announced his final 26-man squad as James Maddison, Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah, James Trafford, Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and Jarrad Branthwaite missed out on a spot on the plane to Germany.

Ahead of the tournament, former United and England star Ferdinand has picked his preferred starting XI.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, the 45-year-old picked Jordan Pickford in goal, a back four of Kyle Walker, John Stones, Marc Guehi and Luke Shaw, Ferdinand pointed out that Keiran Trippier should start if Shaw is unfit.

The Englishman then opted for Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice as the double pivot in midfield.

Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Anthony Gordon will support Harry Kane in attack.

Ferdinand then revealed that Chelsea star Cole Palmer would be his first substitution, he said: “Cole Palmer would be one of my first subs, just because he hasn't had the exposure at this level. The manager has good options in there.”

During an interview with Portugal manager Roberto Martinez for his FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand picked out three teams that could win the tournament.

He said: “I want to wish you good luck for the tournament. I hope you do well and come second behind England, that would be great!

“I think it is you [Portugal], England and France – it will be one of those three. I don’t see no-one else.”

England will face Iceland in their last pre-tournament friendly at Wembley before taking on Serbia in their Euro 2024 opener on June 16.

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