Rio Ferdinand must step up or lose place, says Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson has warned Rio Ferdinand that he needs to "step up" or run the risk of losing his place for both Manchester United and England. Ferguson is concerned about Ferdinand's "uncharacteristic errors" this season and his recurrent fitness problems, admitting that the England international was going through the most difficult period of his seven years at Old Trafford.
Ferdinand was dropped from United's last home game against Sunderland, with Ferguson admitting that he is finding it increasingly difficult to leave out Jonny Evans. Now three weeks from his 31st birthday, Ferdinand has also been troubled by back and groin injuries, playing in only 20 of the last 42 games for his club and national team, and only four internationals in the last year.
"I don't think he's had any spell like this since he joined the club, that's for sure. So it's an unusual experience for him," Ferguson said. "I'm sure he's taken it on board, the criticism he's had, and with his ability and experience he should be coping with that type of thing. We all go through little phases where we need to correct our game or take a step up and I'm sure he'll do that. I think all players worry about their form and if they're making mistakes and getting criticism they have to [worry]. They wouldn't be human if they didn't."
Ferguson was asked whether he considered it to be over the top that Ferdinand's place at the World Cup next summer had come into question but the United manager accepted it was a legitimate issue. "Well, he has to get good form. That's an important issue for the coach [Fabio Capello] because I think probably in defence you [England] have more options than any other position. So he will need to get his form right."
Capello has spoken to Ferdinand about the improvements he expects and Ferguson added: "I don't know if it's overconfidence. I think there's always been a casual part in Rio's game ever since he was a kid. It's been an advantage to him at times. At other times, though, particularly in his younger days, it was a weakness but in his time with us his development and maturity has brought about some outstanding form, consistently, for quite a long time.
"Maybe the point made about missing games [is right]. It takes a little bit away from you but that is the challenge now. He's played his two games for England [against Ukraine and Belarus] now and if he gets into a run of games I'm sure the rhythm will come back. Games will definitely help, there's no question about that. He's not had many [sticky spells]. But he will get through it, I'm sure of that.
Ferdinand is expected to return to the team when United take on Bolton Wanderers at Old Trafford today but Wayne Rooney will be missing because of the calf injury he suffered while on international duty. "We are trying to get him fit for Wednesday [the Champions League tie against CSKA Moscow] but I have my doubts," Ferguson reported. "He should be fit for Liverpool next weekend and we won't take any chances in Moscow."
The Bolton game will also see a fit-again Edwin van der Sar making his first appearance of the season, with Ferguson suggesting it is "not a bad thing" for Ben Foster to be taken out of the spotlight after his erratic performances deputising for the Dutchman.
"I still think he is the best English goalkeeper around. But Edwin has the experience. He and [Peter] Schmeichel have been the two best goalkeepers in the history of this club. I'm sure now Edwin is back that will give the players in front confidence about who's behind them."
Ferguson has submitted his explanation to the Football Association for his criticisms of the referee Alan Wiley after United's 2-2 draw against Sunderland a fortnight ago. An announcement is expected next week about whether he will face a disciplinary charge and Ferguson refused to discuss the matter.