Ferdinand still has a role at United, Moyes insists

Manchester United manager David Moyes insists Rio Ferdinand still has a role to play at the club despite using the veteran defender sparingly this season.

Manchester United manager David Moyes insists Rio Ferdinand still has a role to play at the club despite using the veteran defender sparingly this season.

The 35-year-old has made just 13 appearances this term, and only two since November, as he struggles with a knee injury and increased competition for places in the centre of the champions’ defence.

Ferdinand’s contract is set to expire in the summer but, with Jonny Evans and Phil Jones both having to be withdrawn during the 2-1 defeat to Stoke at the weekend, Moyes has no qualms with turning to the former England international.

“Rio is back training. He’s back and we will continue to use Rio at the right times and the right moments,” he told several national newspapers.

“Rio has made a great contribution, especially in the first half of the season. I played him in nearly all the opening eight to 10 games. He was a big part in helping me to settle.

“He has competition at centre-half but he is very much valued and looked at as one of the senior players.”

Ferdinand could return to action against Fulham at the weekend when fellow central defender Nemanja Vidic will also be available after serving a three-game suspension.

more courts articles

Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van
Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman
Coronation Street actor William Roache (91) given three months to settle tax debt Coronation Street actor William Roache (91) given three months to settle tax debt

More in this section

Old Trafford file photo Two Man Utd fans arrested following tragedy chanting during Liverpool FA Cup tie
Republic of Ireland U21 Training Session Amid his coaching journey, Paul McShane sensing change at Man Utd
Waterford v Athlone Town - SSE Airtricity Men's First Division Play-Off Semi-Final Second Leg Waterford cruise past Rockmount to book Munster Senior Cup final with Kerry
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited