20110318

Ferguson: Backing Ferdinand
He only needs the example of Gary Neville. I am sure he sees that.
Sir Alex Ferguson.
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Sir Alex Ferguson has rubbished suggestions that Rio Ferdinand is finished as a top Premier League player.
Ferguson revealed earlier this week that Ferdinand’s current calf problem could sideline him for the rest of the season.
The England captain has not played since early February because of the injury, and his campaign has been blighted by problems which has seen him play just 15 games.
Some reports have claimed that the centre-back could struggle to return at the highest level, but Ferguson has been quick to dismiss those concerns.
“Rio has plenty of years ahead of him,” insisted Ferguson.
“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 only needs the example of Gary Neville. I am sure he sees that.
“He is desperate to get back and he will.”
England debate
Ferguson refused to talk about the England captaincy debate with Fabio Capello contemplating replacing Ferdinand with former skipper John Terry.
“I am not getting involved with that,” said Ferguson.
“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.”
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Sir Alex rubbishes Rio talk
