Exclusive - Cleverley backs Rio Ferdinand for England return

Tom Cleverley has backed Rio Ferdinand to make a return to international football with England following John Terry’s retirement.

Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson has not selected Ferdinand since taking over the national team in May, citing ‘footballing reasons’, with many assuming his omission was down to a difficult relationship with Terry.

But with the Chelsea captain out of the picture, Ferdinand’s Manchester United teammate Cleverley has told talkSPORT his form this season deserves international recognition.

“He’s a great player and he’s started the season fantastically well for us and he is a very consistent performer,” Cleverley said. “You can always rely on Rio.

“I don’t pick the squads but I think he is definitely in with a shout.”