Rio Ferdinand
Name: Rio Ferdinand
Nationality: English
Date and Place of Birth: Born November 7, 1978 in Peckham, London, England
Playing Position: Centre Back
Current Club:
Manchester United (English Premier League)
Club Career: 1995-2000 West Ham United
2000-2002 Leeds United
2002-present Manchester United
International Career: 1997–present - England
About Rio Ferdinand:
Rio Ferdinand is one of the best current English defenders competing in world football. Rio Ferdinand had a natural talent for the game of football from an early age and his ability and strength led him to be scouted by English side QPR. However, despite interest from QPR, Ferdinand signed for West Ham United as a schoolboy in 1992.
Rio Ferdinand progressed through the youth system at West Ham and impressed turning professional at the club. Ferdinand’s strong and commanding performances in defence soon earned him a call up to the senior side in May 1996 and he excelled in his new role. Ferdinand’s development at West Ham was rewarded as he was awarded Hammer of the Year in the 1997-98 season and was hailed as one of the hot young prospects.
Ferdinand’s impressive performances caught the interest of Leeds United and he signed for the club in November 2000 for £18 million becoming the world’s most expensive defender. At Leeds Ferdinand continued to improve and his natural defensive awareness coupled with his commanding presence led him to be given the captain’s armband in August 2001.
In July 2002 Rio Ferdinand moved to fellow English club side and Leeds United rival, Manchester United, again becoming the world’s most expensive defender. At Manchester United Ferdinand quickly settled in becoming an integral member of the squad and helping the club to secure the Premiership title in his first season.
Ferdinand has continually impressed at Manchester United with strong, reliable and consistent performances and recently enjoyed success as the club lifted the 2006-07 League title. Rio’s talents during the season were rewarded as he was included in the PFA Premiership team of the season along with seven other Manchester United team mates.
Ferdinand plays for the England national side and first made his senior debut in November 1997. Ferdinand has been included in the England squads that have participated in the 1998 World Cup, 2002 World Cup and 2006 World Cup and is an integral member of England’s defensive set up.
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