05 September 2023 , 07:08
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Rio Ferdinand has suggested that Raheem Sterling and James Ward-Prowse should both retire from England duty after being “disrespected” by Gareth Southgate.
The pair were expected to be named in the most recent Three Lions squad for upcoming clashes against Ukraine and Scotland. Both Sterling and Ward-Prowse have enjoyed excellent starts to the new campaign.
The Chelsea winger has enjoyed a bright opening few weeks to the season despite the Blues’ inconsistent form. Meanwhile, Ward-Prowse has shone since his move to the London Stadium from Southampton with a goal and three assists across his first three outings for the Hammers.
Despite that, neither have been named in Southgate’s squad for the upcoming internationals - a decision that wrangles with ex-Man United defender Ferdinand. He has gone as far as suggesting that the pair should potentially hang up their international boots.
Speaking on his Vibe with Five podcast, he said: “If I was Sterling, I’d be very disappointed bearing in mind what he’s done for this England team when he’s been in or around it. If you’re going by the yard stick that Gareth’s using with the likes of [Harry] Maguire and [Kalvin] Phillips, why is it all right for them guys to get in and not him?
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“Sterling’s probably been the main bright spark at Chelsea. It’s just nuts. I’d retire. If I’m someone like Ward-Prowse I’d just retire.
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“Say, ‘listen, don’t pick me no more. There’s no point. It’s disrespectful what you’re doing’. It is to people like him, especially Ward-Prowse who’s been putting up numbers for his team on a regular basis. What more does a man got to do to get a sniff?”
Sterling had insult added to injury with a fresh development over the weekend. The FA have confirmed that Manchester City's Jack Grealish - as well as Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold - have been forced to pull out of the squad due to injury.
Southgate has since decided not to call up any replacements for the pair. Sterling, 28, is one of the most experienced players currently eligible for the Three Lions.
The Chelsea man has made 82 appearances for England and scored 20 goals and made his surprise at not being included clear. Meanwhile, Ward-Prowse has 11 caps for his national side since his debut in March 2017 and has netted twice.
The pair will hope to make more of an impression to regain their places in the squad ahead of the October internationals. The squad reconvenes next month for a double-header at Wembley against Australia and Italy - the latter being a qualifier for next summer’s Euros set to take place in Germany.