Maturity and leadership are the qualities which Sir Alex Ferguson feels have helped shape Rio Ferdinand into the best defender in Europe.
The England international's outstanding displays alongside Nemanja Vidic at the heart of the defence last season resulted in a club record for the lowest number of goals conceded in a Premier League season - just 22 in 38 games.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his attacking cohorts may have received most of the plaudits for their contribution to United's glorious double, but Sir Alex feels Ferdinand, in particular, deserves special recognition.
"Rio has been the best defender in the country, if not Europe for a couple of years," declared the boss. "His maturity and leadership have been key factors in his and the team's success.
"He is someone that young players learn from and that more experienced players respect.
"I have not seen a better defensive pairing than him and Nemanja for a long time."
Ferdinand skippered the Reds to a 1-0 victory over Orlando Pirates in Durban on Tuesday night having missed United's opening two pre-season games with a back injury.
Boss praises Ferdinand
"Rio has been the best defender in the country, if not Europe for a couple of years. His maturity and leadership have been key factors in his and the team's success. He is someone that young players learn from and that more experienced players respect."
- Sir Alex Ferguson
United Career Stats
Appearances and Goals
FA Cup: 21
Carling Cup: 10
Europe: 49, 1
Others: 2
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