Source: Daily_Mail
Sir Alex Ferguson delighted to have Rio Ferdinand's desire and experience at Manchester United
Sir Alex Ferguson knew what was coming when he saw Rio Ferdinand driving over to him at a Manchester United youth-team game last week - and he was elated.[LNB]Ferdinand has endured yet another campaign scarred by injury.[LNB]The 32-year-old had been sidelined by a calf problem sustained in the warm-up prior to Manchester United's defeat at Wolves on February 5.[LNB]At one point, his recovery prospects seemed so bleak Ferguson hinted Ferdinand might not be back for the rest of the season.[LNB] Back with a bang: Ferdinand[LNB]But that Sunday at Carrington, the deposed England skipper wasdelivering a message. It was exactly what Ferguson wanted to hear.[LNB]'Youonly drive half a mile from our training ground to the complex wherethe youth-team games are played for one reason,' said Ferguson.[LNB]'I said to the guy next to me "he wants to play". I was pleased because I was praying he would be fit.'[LNB]Ferguson means no slight on Chris Smalling.[LNB]Under no illusions: Smalling (left)[LNB]The former Fulham youngster has far exceeded the expectations United had for him when he joined the club last summer.[LNB]During Ferdinand's most recent absence, the England Under-21 star has been virtually foot perfect.[LNB]But Ferguson knew how crucial Ferdinand's experience could be at Stamford Bridge last Wednesday - and he was not disappointed.[LNB]'That was probably one of his best performances in a United jersey,' said Ferguson. 'It was magnificent. At his age [21], we don't expect Chris Smalling to be directing and shouting at players. Rio does that really well.[LNB]'He has composure on the ball. He didn't panic. He handled everything. I knew it would happen because all the incentives were there - adrenalin, coming back into the team, the importance of the occasion... It was ideal for Rio.'[LNB] Champions League obsession could be Chelsea's downfall, says Manchester United boss Sir AlexUnited in fitness boost with Rafael the only doubt ahead of Chelsea clashAll the latest Manchester Unitd news, features and opinion Explore more:People: Alex Ferguson, Rio Ferdinand Places: United Kingdom
