United trio commit to the cause

Manchester United FC have finalised new long-term deals with Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and Michael Carrick.

'An honour'
Veteran manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that the three England internationals had elected to extend their stays at Old Trafford, though he did not outline the lengths of the agreements. In Ferdinand's case, the new contract ends protracted discussions with the Premier League leaders. "I'm enjoying my time at United, I love being here and that's not changed," the 29-year-old said shortly prior to the announcement. "Being part of a successful team is great and to be part of the tradition that goes along with that is an honour in itself." Ferdinand joined the club from Leeds United AFC in 2002.

'No other club'
Fellow defender Brown would have been out of contract in the summer, but after spending his entire career at United he has decided to prolong his tenure. "There's no other club for Wes Brown," added Ferguson. "He's a Manchester United player. We were always quietly confident he would sign." The 28-year-old has enjoyed an extended run in the first team this term, filling in for Gary Neville at right-back.

United ambitions
Carrick, 26, has also found favour with his manager this season, staking a claim to a berth in midfield following some impressive recent performances. "It's good that the squad is staying together," said Sir Alex, who will have been pleased to end any speculation surrounding the trio as his team aim to end the campaign on a high. Closing in on the Premier League title, the Red Devils tackle FC Barcelona away on Wednesday in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final.