Best quotes on Nemanja Vidic

A tough and aggressive defender, Vidic established himself as a world-class player competing alongside Rio Ferdinand in the Manchester United team from the mid noughties. Admired for his role as a centre-back, we take a look at some of the best quotes on Nemanja Vidic.

As one of the few footballers to win the Premier League Player of the Season twice, Vidic started his early days at the top Yugoslavian team Red Star Belgrade.

His performances in defence for the Serbia and Montenegro national team during the 2006 World Cup qualifying stage was lauded and led to him being selected by the Premier League club Manchester United.

In nine seasons at Old Trafford he picked up five Premier League and one Champions League honours. Twice a Serbian footballer of the year, he ended his playing days at Inter Milan. Also known for his physicality on the pitch, he retired from the game at the age of 34 due to ongoing injury problems.

Vidic represented the Serbian national team on 56 occasions, with one World Cup finals appearance. He was part of the well-known ‘Famous Four’ defensive line-up that created a new record by conceding just one goal in ten matches during the qualification period of the 2006 World Cup. However, injury forced him to miss the main tournament.

His quality and stature saw many a times the teams he competed for having a good defensive record.

“…..I would see Nemanja in there lifting weights. He turned himself into a big, strong centre-half who was capable of knocking strikers out of the way.”     Paul Scholes

“He was the best partner and favourite partner I played with.”     Rio Ferdinand

“I’d have loved to have played alongside him and I’m sure we could have formed a solid partnership…..”     Jamie Carragher

“Vidic was the hardest I played against.”     Darren Bent

“…..probably the best defender I have ever played with.”     Ryan Giggs

“He became a defender that was feared…..He could fight with the most physical…..he attacked the ball better than anyone I’ve ever seen.”     Rio Ferdinand

“He really was horrible, and solid. Absolutely solid…..He was so good, though. He could play.”     Darren Bent

“…..he could also play with the ball too, which made him complete and a great defender.”     Rio Ferdinand

“…..Nemanja has been an immense player for United for so many years…..”     Ryan Giggs

“Vidic the type of leader Manchester United need right now.”    John Brewin

“…..I was one of the lucky ones to have played with you. Great memories.”     Michael Carrick

“…..such a champion and professional! You would definitely be in my all time best eleven!”     Robin van Persie

“The thing about Nemanja is that he’s so brave…..He’s prepared to put his head in.”     Alex Ferguson

“It was a pleasure to play alongside this man…..A legend.”     Phil Jones

“There is no question he can play, there is not a doubt about it.” Alex Ferguson

“Good defenders win you things…..This lad is really natural and athletic. You need good defenders and that is exactly what this lad is.”     Alex Ferguson

“Simply the best out-and-out defender I’ve seen.” Michael Carrick

“Nemanja puts his head where other players are scared to put their feet. That’s Nemanja.” Robin van Persie

“Nemanja is a warrior. He is a natural defender.” Alex Ferguson

“He doesn’t hold back from any challenges and is very physical. Players respond to that.” Gary Pallister

“Nemanja is unbelievable in the air. He wins absolutely everything. He is so powerful and brave.” Bobby Charlton

“Full-blooded tackler, never afraid to boot the ball clear…..” Paul Schmeichel

“He’s so brave…..” Paddy Crerand

“…..but Vidic was an unbelievable defender.” John Terry

“Vidic is a world-class player.” Erick Thohir