Rio told to stay at Manchester United

David Beckham has stated that he hopes Rio Ferdinand stays at Manchester United, despite rumours the veteran could be set for a move to the MLS.

The centre half has lost a place in the national squad, and with persistent injury concerns and the emergence of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling at Old Trafford, is no longer guaranteed a starting berth in Sir Alex Ferguson’s starting XI.

Rumours in the press state that Chicago Fire are keen to offer the ageing defender one last bumper payday, but Beckham feels Ferdinand should stay with the Premier League champions.

“It’s unfair for me to even comment on a player that’s under contract at Manchester United, loved by the fans. He’s a very good player,” he told The Daily Mail.

“That’s the first time I’ve heard those rumours but I’m not even going to comment because he’s a Manchester United player and as a [former] Manchester United player I want him to stay there,” he stated.

Beckham’s own future has been subject to speculation, with a move to big spending Paris St Germain of interest to the LA Galaxy man.

“I love Leonardo. He’s a great manager, a great person. I’m flattered that he wants me to go and join the team in Paris.

“I think there are big things happening in France at a number of clubs. It’s an exciting time. Leonardo going there and the money that’s at the club. It’s an interesting club,” he concluded.

By Gareth McKnight

[ad_pod id=’unruly-2′ align=’left’]