Testimonial handed to veteran defender.
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Rio Ferdinand has been handed a testimonial with Manchester United to mark his ten year anniversary at the club and potentially putting an end to speculation over his future, Sky Sports reports.
The 34-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and rumours of a move away from Old Trafford have continued to circulate despite him enjoying somewhat of a renaissance in the United backline this season.
Ferdinand has also managed to claw his way back into Roy Hodgson’s thoughts for the England national team too, though there is still controversy surrounding his inclusion as he pulled out of a recent squad citing injury, only to fly to Dubai to perform punditry duties.
However, Sir Alex Ferguson is confident that the ex-Leeds man will commit to another year with The Red Devils after being handed a testimonial.
“I have spoken to Rio,” Ferguson said, “I would imagine the best thing for him would be to stay but at this moment in time he is more concerned about getting an opponent for his testimonial game.”
“But we want him to stay and I am sure his representatives will be talking about that with (chief executive) David (Gill).”
The testimonial is scheduled for the beginning of next season, though there is no confirmed opponent yet.
Rumours have been going around that he will seek to move abroad for one final payday before hanging up his boots whilst others believe that he’ll return to West Ham and finish his career with the club that gave him his first opportunity.