Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed media speculation that Rio Ferdinand’s Manchester United career may be over after revealing his latest injury may keep him out for the rest of the season.

“Rio has plenty of years ahead of him,” said Ferguson. “He has had a few injuries over the last few years I am sure that are a concern for him. But he is still capable of coming back and playing at the top level. He only needs the example of Gary Neville. I am sure he sees that. He is desperate to get back and he will.”