'I'm walking back from Germany' - Rio Ferdinand reacts to Gareth Southgate's rumoured 3-5-2 lineup to face Switzerland and names England star who 'has to' start

Ferdinand has reacted to reports that Southgate is considering a major tactical switch to a back three against Switzerland. That tactical switch would allow Trent Alexander-Arnold and Bukayo Saka to play as wing-backs, with three central defenders; potentially Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Ezri Konsa. It is unclear exactly who will play in midfield but Ferdinand insists that Mainoo must be selected.

The Manchester United youngster started the Round of 16 tie against Slovakia, in which England were largely dire but were rescued by Jude Bellingham's staggering 95th-minute overhead kick. Mainoo, though, was a rare positive for the Three Lions and appears to be fostering an understanding with Declan Rice in midfield.

Ferdinand wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "If Kobbie ain’t starting, I’m walking back from Germany! Has to…."

England face Switzerland on Saturday, with a semi-final meeting against either the Netherlands or Turkey awaiting the winner.