EXCLUSIVE: Rio Ferdinand Is Not Finished - Viv Anderson

Viv Anderson has told Goal.com UK that Rio Ferdinand can get over his defensive nightmare and put in top-class performances for years to come.

The former Manchester United and England right back, who played until the age of 39, is convinced the critics saying Ferdinand is finished after his latest error against the Ukraine last Saturday have got it wrong.

“There’s no doubt he has gone through a funny period of late and it’s not worked out for him. He’s not really had a consistent run of games.

“That has caused problems for him as, even though he is a fantastic footballer when at 100 per cent, he has often been playing at 70 per cent and it shows. You can’t afford to be under-par.

“Rio is, by far, too good a player to let this run continue. He has proved himself a stalwart for England and United.”

With Ferdinand turning 31 in less than a month’s time, some feel he is approaching the end of his shelf life as a world-class performer.

Anderson, though, is convinced the player will still be around for many seasons to come.

He said: “Rio’s pushing 31 now and you do start feeling the injuries more as you get older, but you use your experience and adapt.

“I played until I was 39 and, believe me, Rio has a long way to go before he reaches that mark. He has all the attributes to continue playing at the top level for years to come.”

Matt Monaghan, Goal.com UK

Viv Anderson is an ambassador for Kick It Out. Kick It Out's One Game One Community takes place from 15-27 October. For more information, visit www.kickitout.org