Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand tips Levi Colwill as England’s next big star
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes Chelsea star Levi Colwill has a “huge opportunity” to become a future England national team mainstay given his immense potential.
Colwill has excelled since returning from a loan at Brighton & Hove Albion, impressing Ferdinand with his technical quality and versatility.
The 20-year-old assisted in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Fulham on Monday, showcasing his excellent passing range by providing a terrific cross into the box to Mykhailo Mudryk, who ultimately scored what happened to be his first goal for the club.
Speaking to Rising Ballers(h/t Football. London), Ferdinand said that Chelsea’s Cobham graduate has a ‘huge opportunity’ to become a key figure for the English national team.
“I see him as the England centre-half in waiting because I think he’s got everything,I seen him at Brighton, composure, asked to play a different way, adapted straight away. As long as he stays on it, his mindset stays strong, works at his game still, I think he’s got a huge opportunity.”
Levi Colwill has been involved with England’s senior squad but is still awaiting his first cap. After leading the Under-21s to Euros glory, Rio Ferdinand feels Colwill is primed to step up under England manager Gareth Southgate.
Chelsea fought hard to keep Colwill amid interest from Liverpool and Brighton this summer. The Blues see him as a future defensive cornerstone after his meteoric rise on loan with the Seagulls last season.
Colwill recently signed a long-term Chelsea extension until 2029. After the signing, he expressed his love for the Blues
“It’s always been an easy decision. As I’ve grown up, all I’ve known is Chelsea. I’ve spoken with the manager and he’s given me reassurance, that trust I needed. He’s spoken with me not just as a player but a person. It’s made a big difference.”
Colwill might soon be in the starting eleven for England
If Colwill can establish himself as a regular starter, Ferdinand believes England will benefit from having the talented young centre-back before long.
With John Stones and Harry Maguire struggling with fitness and form respectively, Colwill has a clear pathway into Southgate’s squad. His technical ability and distribution make him an ideal modern defender at the highest level.
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For Chelsea, securing Colwill’s future was a major coup amidst heavy interest. If he lives up to his vast potential, Colwill could follow in the footsteps of club legend John Terry and anchor the Blues’ backline and England’s for over a decade.