Rio Gavin Ferdinand, was born on the 7th of November 1978 in Peckham, London and was very close to his divorced parents. Rio learnt a lot while living in a rather rough estate which is known for being distinctively poor. However, this didn't stop him from taking up a career in his passion - football. Despite this he was a very keen ballet student and at the age of 11 won a place at the Central School of Ballet, attending many classes. Surprisingly, his unexpected talent gave Ferdinand the ability to have an excellent balance; which has showed in his fifteen year playing career - such his favourite phrase #stayonyourfeet. However his true talent showed through and he undertook several trials at various English Clubs. Finally, in 1992 at the age of 14 he signed for West Ham United in the youth team set-up and played along side Chelsea's Frank Lampard. Furthermore, Rio's success as a young footballer developed even further as he began to represent England in youth competitions; at such a young age there was clearly a talent in the English centre back.
His professional career kicked off after he was seriously spotted by Frank Lampard Senior and was offered a professional contract by West Ham and made his debut in May of 1996. After this Rio won the Hammer footballer of the year award as he impressed and made over 100 league appearances. He then played for two years at Leeds United having signed tor the Premier League club for a British transfer record fee of £18 million; this also made him the most expensive defender ever.
However, in 2002 Ferdinand signed for us under SAF for a fee around £30 million - breaking the transfer records once again. This is where Rio became Rio and has since made over 300 league appearances, shining throughout despite being held back by endless injuries. Ferdinand has also made a ton of England appearances and has captained the side several times.
So what makes him so special? Well I suppose his footballing abilities are really what have shone through; he is quick, technically sound, powerful in the air and on the ground and he is simply a great leader. Ferdinand has represented us at such a high level and has played in a few UCL finals. So far his career has been extremely impressive. However what does the future hold the the United Veteran at 32?
He has already said that the amount of competition for a place in the central defence neighbourhood is high, with the likes of Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and new boy Phil jones. However he is confident that, despite his age Rio will still be fighting for a place for years to come:
They can't be in awe of me," he said. "If they are, they will get shipped out. That is the way it is. Your desire has to be to play. I understand and respect that. That is why they are here."
Therefore, it will be interesting to see how Rio Ferdinand plays his tricks at United in the future. #stayonyourfeet
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I think Rio will carry on to struggle with injuries which will hinder his career
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