Football Club Buzz

27/11/2011 10:36, Report by Adam Marshall

Sir Alex Ferguson has explained his recent comments regarding Rio Ferdinand and reiterated that the Manchester United defender still has another couple of good years in him.

The Reds centre-back was told he would have to adjust his game as he gets older and that led to some newspaper reports that the £30million signing from Leeds will be phased out of the firing line.

Sir Alex addressed the matter on the eve of Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United, during which Ferdinand was highly unfortunate to concede a penalty. The boss told Sunday newspaper journalists:

“I think it [the talk about Rio's United days being numbered] generally came from the media after he’d not played in certain games.

“From Rio’s perspective as he’s been such a great player for us, I think it was important to explain his present position and there’s nothing wrong with that.

“What I said was absolute fact – he’s not as quick as he was five years ago. That happens, people do lose their pace as they get older.

“But Rio is adjusting his game accordingly and has had two or three good performances since then.

“I’ve no issues at all with Rio, he can play for another couple of years quite easily. Of course we have to look ahead, there’s nothing wrong with that, but it shouldn’t mean Rio looks upon it as the end of his career. He’s got a part to play with his experience and he’s good in the dressing room. He’s a big figure and players look up to him so that will continue.”

Source : ManUtd News

Related posts:

1. Boss makes plans for Shots 25/10/2011 09:23, Report by Adam Marshall Sir Alex is planning on taking a similar squad to Aldershot to the one that was on duty...
2. Rio back to his best 14/10/2011 22:30, Report by Gemma Thompson Rio Ferdinand may no longer be first choice for his country, but Sir Alex Ferguson insists the defender...
3. Rio eyes Wembley win 12/04/2011 23:32, Report by Nick Coppack One down, one to go. ...
4. Boss hails ‘versatile’ Jones 28/07/2011 00:30, Report by Gemma Thompson in New Jersey Phil Jones may have played just two games for United but he's already shown his...
5. Boss: We’re getting closer 14/09/2011 09:30, Report by A Marshall & G Thompson Sir Alex believes United are edging closer to becoming kings of Europe for a fourth time....