Source: Daily_Mail
Ferguson gives Ferdinand the green light to enter Hell's Kitchen contest
Sir Alex Ferguson has given Rio Ferdinand the green light to take part in a charity cooking contest at Old Trafford later this month despite reports suggesting he would halt the under-fire defender's off-field commitments. [LNB]The Manchester United star will battle against celebrity chef Marco Pierre White in the kitchen, alongside team-mates Edwin Van De Sar and Patrice Evra, on November 26 in aid of his latest venture, the Live the Dream Foundation. [LNB]But before being sidelined until December with a troublesome back problem, Ferguson was said to be planning an end to the England international's ever-growing list of engagements following a series of below-par performances. [LNB] Cooking up a storm: Ferdinand will try his luck in the kitchen[LNB]The 31-year-old came under intense scrutiny last month during his red-carpet promotion for new gangster flick Dead Man Running, a production both he and Chelsea full-back Ashley Cole played a key part in behind the scenes. [LNB]Dinner date: Hell's Kitchen celebrity chef Marco Pierre White is ready to give Ferdinand a grilling[LNB]And although he has received Ferguson's backing, Ferdinand's United future has been called into serious question with Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp registering an interest. [LNB]Ignoring calls to curb his appearances outside the game, the former West Ham and Leeds United ace will cook for a packed audience of discerning diners at the £275-per-person black tie function, where all proceeds will be donated to his new charity. [LNB]Ferdinand, raised on a tough south London estate in Peckham, is keen to provide deprived youngsters life-changing opportunities and follows Chelsea striker Didier Drogba in the latest offering of Premier League goodwill. [LNB]'I've always been passionate about helping those who haven't had the best start in life - particularly young people,' said Ferdinand, speaking ahead of the charity's official launch party on December 16, where singer Robbie Williams, TV star James Corden and Frank Lampard will lend star-studded support to the cause led by entrepreneur Chris Nathaniel's NVA Entertainment Group. [LNB] 'I was fortunate enough to realise my potential as a footballer and I want to help others do the same in whatever area they believe they have the skills. [LNB]'The Live the Dream Foundation will help to change lives,' added Ferdinand, who misses England's forthcoming friendly with Brazil in Qatar through injury. [LNB] Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hit with four-match ban for 'grossly improper' criticism of Alan WileyPatrice Evra wants to be a Manchester United legend by topping Liverpool's title haulWayne Rooney warns England must improve or forget about winning the World CupFabio's right to snub Owen - but I'd still take him to World Cup, claims Shearer Nani lifts lid on United: Portugal star says Fergie has dented his confidenceMANCHESTER UNITED FC
