Tom Cleverley wants Rio Ferdinand England return

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has backed teammate Rio Ferdinand to make a return to the England squad.

Three Lions manager Roy Hodgson has not selected the centre-back for his country since he took over in May, and didn't include him in his 23-man-party for Euro 2012.

Hodgson claims that Ferdinand's snub was down to 'footballing reasons' although many believe that his difficult relationship with John Terry was the deciding factor.

However, with Terry now retired from international football, Cleverley thinks that the time is right for Ferdinand to make his England comeback.

"He's a great player and he's started the season fantastically well for us and he is a very consistent performer," Cleverley told talkSPORT

"You can always rely on Rio.

"I don't pick the squads but I think he is definitely in with a shout."

Ferdinand has 81 caps for England.