Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he is delighted that Rio Ferdinand has signed a new five-year contract.
The Manchester United defender’s agent Pini Zahavi confirmed on Tuesday that the centre-half had agreed an extension on his current deal.
Ferguson feels that the England international has been crucial in United’s pursuit of domestic and European honours this season, and has displayed admirable leadership qualities.
“He’s on the point of signing a new contract and we’re very happy about that,” the United boss told Sky Sports News.
“But we always try and get everyone, all the players on longer contracts so we’re not chasing things, and sometimes we maybe slip up but not often.
“They are all crucial, but Rio’s been playing a fantastic part this season.
“A lot of times he has been captain when Ryan hasn’t been available or when we’ve rested Ryan, and he’s done very well then too so these are all encouraging things.”
