United are set for their final pre-season match before the season curtain raiser at Wembley on Sunday. David Moyes will surely have more than one eye on the Community Shield with it being a fantastic opportunity for him to pick up his first bit of silverware. There should be a few cameo appearances by former players tonight and no doubt a fun atmosphere at Old Trafford.
Match Details
KO: 19.30 BST
Venue: Old Trafford
Date: 9th August 2013
Coverage: Watch live on MUTV, or BT Sport.
Due to the occasion, don’t expect a brilliant technical display from either side. Neither manager will want to exert their players in a friendly so close to the season opener. Tonight’s match is a celebration of the glittering career of Rio Ferdinand. The Peckham born lad worked his way through the West Ham academy with some of England’s finest young prospects including; Joe Cole, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Glen Johnson and Jermain Defoe. Since making his Premier League debut in 1996 he has arguably been the most successful of the bunch and gone on to fulfil and surpass his potential.
Rio’s decorated career of honours at United include 6 Premier League titles (2002-03, 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09, 2010-11, 2012-13), 2 League Cups (2005-06, 2008-09), 1 Champions League (2007-08) and 1 FIFA Club World Cup: (2008). In 11 years at United he has made 432 appearances and scored 8 goals. My personal favourite is the last minute winner against Liverpool in front of the Stretford End in the 2005/06 season. Still feel the same buzz every time I see it replayed! Any player who scores a goal like that against Liverpool, let alone in that manner, instantly goes down in Manchester United folklore.
His leadership qualities have brought a maturity to the United defence that has been realised and continued by the likes of Jonny Evans and Phil Jones. With his recent escapades on twitter, business interests with his #5 magazine and merchandise many would have thought Rio would be leaving football behind once retired. However, recent comments revealed another side to the man.
“I started my coaching badges three years ago but I had issues with my back so could not continue it. I will start again this year and then hopefully by the time I retire I will have my coaching badges behind me. Whether it is with our younger teams, the under-21s or someone else, I have no idea yet. I want to give myself the option to be a manager. That way if someone does offer me a job, I have the ability to do it”.
This gives hope to the thought Rio may follow in the footsteps of Phil Neville and Ryan Giggs in becoming a coach after retirement.
United have truly been blessed with a fantastic player who is held in high regard amongst his fellow professionals. He optimises the word composure and is so elegant with the ball at his feet. Never rushed, even under pressure he has always had the ability to play the ball out of danger and an astute ability to read the game.
“He’s one of the best central defenders this club has seen.” – Sir Alex Ferguson.
“His all-round ability is what I admire most. I hope he enjoys his testimonial. – John O’Shea
“What a player!!! Made my life easier playing in front of him.” – Michael Carrick
“This is going to be a big night for me as well as an emotional one. I cannot believe where those 10 years have gone and I am lucky to have spent them here at Manchester United. This club is unique in every way, the history and drive of the place is unbelievable, it spurs everyone to succeed. The fans are the best in the world, their commitment is amazing and I have appreciated their support throughout my career. I hope they enjoy the night as much as I intend to.” – Rio Ferdinand
I’m sure all United fans will enjoy it just as much as you Rio. Make sure you stay on your feet and I’ll be disappointed if you don’t ping one in from 30 yards! Thanks for everything, what a servant to the club.
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