Ferguson Plans Ferdinand Contract Extension

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly very keen in securing the services of defender Rio Ferdinand with a longer contract by offering the England international an extension. His current deal expires in 2 years' time.

Ferdinand has been touted as "the best central defender in the world" by boss at Old Trafford Ferguson and is poised to put out a 6 year contract on the table.

"The thing about Rio is that he is only 25" stated Ferguson. "He's got four years before he even reaches that point. So he could play for another ten years. He's a big, fit lad. He's athletic and hasn't had any injury problems. He's got the world in front of him."

"His pace and ability on the ball stands out," he added. "Nobody can run him for pace. He's absolutely lightning quick. He's got all these advantages as a defender."

"His composure is without question. He's got a calmness about him that spreads right through the team" added the Scotsman.

The defender has even been awarded the captain's armband in the absence of regular skipper Roy Keane and has been constantly lavished with praise since his return from an 8 month drugs ban.