Top 25 quotes about Rio Ferdinand

One of the best defenders of his generation, Rio Gavin Ferdinand was a pivotal player for Manchester United, West Ham United, and the England national football team. Many plaudits came his way during his playing days. Take a look at the 25 top quotes about Rio Ferdinand below.

Winner of six Premier Leagues, one Champions League, and an 81 international veteran, Ferdinand also received an honorary degree recently.

Born in the district of South London, Ferdinand started his career at West Ham United, before joining Manchester United in 2002 as the most expensive defender in the world, and promptly helped the club win the Premier league title. Despite his problems on and off the pitch, six league titles in the 12 seasons he was at Old Trafford did justice to his pedigree.

There were times when he was touted as the best defender in the world. His appearances for England were highlighted by two World Cup finals tournaments and the captaincy armband.   

A writer of autobiographies, he is now seen as a television pundit and was honoured for his active work in mental health and racism in sport.

As a world-class defender, he was lauded for his ball skills and balance, and his central defensive role where he gelled well with other defenders. He was a great ‘stopper’ of the ball and many teams went goal-less with him in the back-line in front of the goalkeeper.

“…..When you identify a particular great player you think how you could get him here.”     Alex Ferguson

“I think he is the best defender in Europe.”     Harry Redknapp

“I’m going to call you Pele, son, I like the way you play.”     Dave Goodwin

“…..became one of the UK’s most successful and best-known footballers.”     David Phoenix

“…..first touch like a centre forward.”     Alex Ferguson

“Rio is a naturally fit boy…..He is lean and very fast.”     Harry Redknapp

“…..develop into the best centre-half in the world.”     Alex Ferguson

“He’s so clean that he wins the ball like Bobby Moore did.”     Tord Grip

“…..we’ve got the best player in the world…..I don’t just mean the best defender – I mean the best player.”     Kieron Dyer

“He’s developed from being a fantastically creative defender into a disciplined defender at Leeds United.”     Henry Winter

“Rio is an excellent defender.”     Ryan Giggs

“He’s a quality player who will fit in well at any club…..He’s a great player and a nice lad.”     Peter Ridsdale

“He’s been fantastically consistent, top class, absolutely brilliant. He’s still one of the best footballers in the country.”     Alex Ferguson

“The best I played with.”     Gary Neville

“When he was 15, I knew he was going to be a fantastic defender.”     Harry Redknapp

“What a player…..Quite simply the best centre-back I’ve come across.”     Michael Carrick

“He’s now surpassed Nesta and Cannavaro – the great Italian centre-halves.”     Henry Winter

“I thought he was superb…..He has an assuredness and a composure that transmits through the whole team.”     Alex Ferguson

“Rio is a special, special player. He has everything.”     Harry Redknapp

“…..he has become a leader as well. He definitely has all the qualities you look for in a defender.”     Ryan Giggs

“He is a loyal soldier. But he would be very happy to join Manchester United…..He wants to play in the Champions League.”     Pinhas Zahavi

“…..there is no better person we can present an honorary LSBU degree to.”     David Phoenix

“I always knew he would go to the top and he has…..He’s at the top now with Manchester United. He’s without doubt the best defender in Europe, if not the world.”     Harry Redknapp

“Rio, a Rolls Royce…..got the lot, defend, quick, composed beyond belief…..”     Michael Carrick

“Rio’s contribution this season has been a major factor in our outstanding defensive performance…..”     Alex Ferguson