Rio Ferdinand has today claimed that he has no intention of losing his starting place in the team to new signings Chris Smalling and Phil Jones.

Smalling had a great début season at the club, whilst big money has been forked out for Jones who has been assured of playing time by the manager.

With Rio not getting any younger and his injuries ruling him out for chunks of every season, it would be reasonable to guess he would be the one to make way for these younger players. However, Ferdinand insists he’s not ready to step aside yet.

“I remember what I was like when I was young,” said Ferdinand. “I remember looking up at Slaven Bilic, Marc Rieper, Alvin Martin and Steve Potts at West Ham. I was only a kid but I used to sit on the bench and think I should be playing. I am sure these guys think the same thing. If they have got anything about them they should. They are all talented footballers and, I believe, Manchester United players. At some point I am sure they will take over the reins. But I am competitive and I don’t want to be giving up my position to anybody. My task is to prove I am hungrier than them.”