Rio Ferdinand didn’t hesitate when naming England’s most important player at Euro 2024

Ferdinand thinks the player in question gets ‘a bad rap’.

Rio Ferdinand didn’t hesitate when naming England’s most important player during Euro 2024.

The Three Lions take on Spain in the final, which takes place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, on Sunday.

Gareth Southgate’s side produced their best performance of the tournament to beat the Netherlands 2-1 in the semi-final, with Ollie Watkins scoring a dramatic winner in second half injury time.

After Jude Bellingham’s 94th-minute equaliser to send their last 16 clash against Slovakia into extra time, England haven’t looked back.

Bukayo Saka launches ball into stands after Ollie Watkins’ England winner
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The tournament has also seen Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo break out as an international star, while the likes of Bukayo Saka, Jordan Pickford and Marc Guehi have also been consistently impressive.

But speaking on the latest episode of The Rest Is Football, Ferdinand believes another member of England’s squad is the most important – Declan Rice.

He explained: “Declan’s been solid. He gets 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 squad? In terms of importance.”

Ferdinand also spoke of the England players that have impressed him the most during the tournament.

“Kobbie Mainoo has been a joy to watch,” he said. “I’ve spent quite a bit of time with his family during this tournament. You can tell their input into him is telling. Calm, level people.

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“We know what it’s like, we’ve gone out there for England in a tournament. The pressure on you is crazy. He’s playing like it’s just normal to him – it’s phenomenal.

“He’s a beautiful player to watch. He always does something in the game where you think, not many people can do that. Not many people can be that composed in those areas, under pressure.

“Phil Foden’s grown into it and showing glimpses of what we see in a Manchester City shirt. Marc Guehi’s been the most consistent performer from start to finish. He’s been ridiculous. Again, first tournament for him as well.

“Saka’s been explosive at times, and been one of the players we’ve looked to create openings. They’re the ones who stand out for me.”