|
|
Redknapp: Ferdinand's still top quality
23 Feb 2013 10:20:00
The QPR manager believes that the former West Ham defender, whom he managed when he was at Upton Park, is still one of the quickest around, despite Sir Alex suggesting otherwise
Harry Redknapp has defended his former player Rio Ferdinand, believing that the Manchester United defender is still one of the quickest centre-backs in the Premier League.
Ferdinand has been on the receiving end of criticism this season following some below-par displays that prompted questions about his ability to continue performing at the level required of a team challenging for the title.
 |
|
| PREMIER LEAGUE LATEST |
|
| 13/1 | Manchester United are 13/1 with BetVictor to beat QPR 3-0 on Saturday |
However, with Manchester United plagued by injuries, Ferdinand kept his position in the starting XI and has since helped Sir Alex Ferguson's side propel themselves 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Redknapp, who worked with the former England international when he was manager at West Ham, still believes the defender is of the highest quality.
“Rio losing a yard probably still makes him as quick as any centre-half in the country,” the QPR manager told reporters.
“He was lightning quick, so if Alex thinks he’s lost a yard that’ll just bring him closer to the next-quickest centre-half – he’s that quick.
“I just think he’s a fantastic player. He’s been a top player since he was 17 and he’s been a great player for United. He’s still top quality.”
QPR host Manchester United on Saturday afternoon in a 15:00 kick-off at Loftus Road.
| Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25 |
|
| Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200 |
|
| Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets |
|
Related Stories
Inside Goal.Com
-
Win a sponsorship package with Seara!
Official 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ sponsor is giving away an amazing sponsorship package for next season to five football squads from across the UK and Ireland
-
League of Ireland Player of the Week: Kieran Waters
After a slow start to the season, the talented winger has significantly improved his contribution to aid Bray Wanderers in their fight against relegation
-
Real Madrid are better off without Mourinho
The Portuguese's position had become untenable in recent weeks, especially after Friday's debacle in the Copa del Rey. Now he's leaving, but the club can grow stronger without him
-
AVB, Levy & Lewis to thrash out Tottenham plans
After missing out on a place in the Champions League, the north London side are devising a way to keep Gareth Bale at the club and attract new stars to White Hart Lane
-
Bayern's jinx - CL final referee Nicola Rizzoli
Goal takes a look at the career of the Italian arbiter to date following Uefa's decision to appoint the 41-year-old for Saturday's showpiece at Wembley