Five more years for United's Ferdinand

Sir Alex delighted
The 29-year-old central defender has committed to the club until the summer of 2013, having moved to Old Trafford from Leeds United AFC in 2002. "I am delighted Rio has signed a new contract," said manager Sir Alex Ferguson, whose side will look to complete a Premier League and UEFA Champions League double in the final against Chelsea FC in Moscow next Wendesday. "Rio's contribution this season has been a major factor in our outstanding defensive performance."

West Ham trainee
Capped 66 times by England, Ferdinand started his career at West Ham United FC - where his brother Anton is a player - and moved to Leeds in 2000. His transfer fee to United was a mammoth £29m (€36.5m), but he has proved his class by helping Sir Alex's side win three English league titles. "It is a great honour to be part of this trophy-winning team and to share in the success, which I am sure will continue for many seasons to come," said Ferdinand.