Manchester United Football Club News

• Nickname:Red Devils
• Founded:1878
• Manager:Sir Alex Ferguson

• Ground:Old Trafford
• Capacity:68,174

Fergie: Rio one of the best

24 Jul 2008 - 07:44:36

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Red Devils centre-back Rio Ferdinand is among the top defenders in Europe.

The 29-year-old has matured in recent seasons and is a candidate to become the new permanent captain of the England national team, while he has also formed a superb partnership with Nemanja Vidic at Old Trafford.

Ferguson said on the club's pre-season tour of South Africa: "Rio has been the best defender in the country, if not Europe, for a couple of years.

"His maturity and leadership have been key factors in the team's success.

"He is someone that young players learn from and that more experienced players respect.

"I have not seen a better defensive pairing than him and Nemanja Vidic for a long time."