Everton Have One Of The Best Young Centre Backs In The Country – Rio Ferdinand

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on young Everton defender Mason Holgate and tipped him to achieve ‘big things’ in football. The ex-player turned football pundit has been speaking to evertonfc.com and said that he thinks Holgate hasn’t even ‘scratched the surface’ with his potential yet.

Ferdinand said:

“I’ve seen more focus in Mason’s performances. He’s in a really superb place. His form for Everton has been excellent – he’s been one of the most consistent players in a blue shirt.” 

“He’d been touted as being in the next England squad [before lockdown]. He’s set goals for himself and he’s starting to knock those goals down, one by one.”

“He’s defending well and, we all knew that he could pass and play, but I think he’s brought that to another level this season.”

“He’s shown authority in the way he has played.”

“Everton have got one of the best young centre-halves in the country – that’s a fact.”

“He’s not even scratched the surface yet in terms of what he will be in three to four years.” 

“The progression he’s made so far is just the tip of the iceberg with Mason. There is much more to come.”

“There are so many targets he’s going to put out for himself to go and achieve, and I think he can do that with the project that’s ongoing at Everton.”

“The potential Mason’s got is huge.”

High praise indeed for Mason Holgate from one of England’s best defenders over the past 20 years. Ferdinand gained 81 caps for his country and after playing for West Ham and Leeds United he then had a glittering career at Manchester United before becoming a tv pundit with BT Sport.

Ferdinand is also confident that Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership and tactical excellence will help Holgate further develop. Blues boss Ancelotti has managed legendary Italian defenders Franco Baresi, Paulo Maldini and Alessandro Nesta and therefore excellently placed to improve Holgate.

“He will be a great judge and is a person who will be able to guide them, he’s managed the best players.

“To being playing for someone like Carlo Ancelotti, with his CV and the players he’s played with and managed… it’s very exciting times for them.”