Ferguson: Ferdinand will be back

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed speculation Rio Ferdinand’s playing career could be over.

The United boss revealed this week that the England centre back’s calf injury could see him miss the rest of the current campaign.

The 32-year-old has not played since United’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa in the English Premier League on February 1 and has made just 15 appearances this season.

Despite reports his time at the top could be coming to an end because of his persistent niggles, Ferguson insists his captain will return to his best.

“Rio has plenty of years ahead of him,” Ferguson said.

“He has had a few injuries over the last few years I am sure that are a concern for him.”

“But he is still capable of coming back and playing at the top level.”

“He is desperate to get back and he will.”

“Calf injuries can be troublesome. I remember Bryan Robson was out for four months with a calf injury.”

“It is looking that way again with Rio.”

“We are not looking at it as a short-term situation for us. He has been out for a few weeks now anyway and has not started training yet.”

“It looks to me as if we will be lucky to get him back for some point of the season.”