Sir Alex Ferguson: Rio Ferdinand will recover from dip in form

16 October 2009 18:39
Ferdinand goes into Manchester United's Premier League encounter with Bolton at Old Trafford on Saturday with his recent poor form raising questions over his claims to a starting spot with England. With Ferguson acknowledging the emergence of Northern Irish centre-half Jonny Evans earlier this month by admitting "the time will come when I have to put him in", Ferdinand's position at United is also under scrutiny for the first time since his £30 million arrival from Leeds United in 2002. Related Articles * Megson talks up United target Cahill * Wayne Rooney out of Bolton match * Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers: match preview * Kevin Davies 'treated unfairly' * Owen Hargreaves back in three weeks * Top 10 Manchester United websites High-profile errors for club and country have become a growing concern and, despite Ferdinand building a reputation as one of the world's best defenders, Ferguson has warned the 30 year-old that he must raise his game. The United manager said: "He has to get good form. That's an important issue because, in defence, England have more options than other positions. Do I think Rio will go to the World Cup? Yes, of course. We all go through little phases where we need to correct our game or take a step up and I'm sure he'll do that. "He's not had many [difficult spells] and I don't think he's had one like this since he joined the club. It's an unusual experience for him, but he will get through it. I'm sure he's taken on board the criticism he's had and, with his ability and experience, he should be coping with that type of thing." With back and groin injuries affecting him in recent months, Ferdinand has appeared in just 26 of the last 57 games for club and country, but Ferguson has dismissed reports that the defender's fitness is becoming a cause for concern. He said: "He had a problem with his back in Japan last year. That was a bit of a concern at the time, but we did a lot of core work in the gymnasium and corrected that. The recent injuries have been groin injuries, but that can happen to anyone. He played the two games for England, though, and if he gets into a run of games, I'm sure the rhythm will come back." Ferguson refused to discuss the furore surrounding his comments relating to the fitness of referee Alan Wiley, but the Football Association has confirmed that the Scot's letter of explanation over his remarks arrived at headquarters on Friday morning. The letter will be reviewed before the FA decides whether to act further. Wayne Rooney, who suffered a calf strain on England duty, is out of Saturday's game and could also miss the Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow in Russia on Wednesday. Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar will return to the starting line-up following injury, leaving Ben Foster facing a return to the bench. Ferguson said: "Foster has been outstanding in many things, but he still has not had a lot of game time and experience because of his injuries. He is only going to get better. I still think he is the best English goalkeeper around. But Edwin has the experience and he couldn't come back at a better time."

Source: Telegraph