Just three days after his release from recently relegated Queens Park Rangers, former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand opted to hang up his boots permanently.
Ferdinand broke the news just weeks after the tragic death of wife of six years, Rebecca Ellison. Having signed a one-year contract at Loftus Road after his departure from the Theatre of Dreams, it was unlikely Ferdinand would sign a new deal, revealing back in November 2014 he was going to retire at the end of the campaign.
The 36-year-old spent 12 years at Old Trafford, making over 300 appearances for the Red Devils. During his time, he featured alongside a number of former and current players, who have passed on their messages to the former central defender.
Michael Carrick enjoyed eight years alongside Ferdinand, during which they lifted the Premier League five times, as well as the Champions League during an infamous night in Moscow. He branded the defender the best he has ever come across.
https://twitter.com/carras16/status/604673494522163202
Spanish international David de Gea spent three years at the back with Ferdinand, and was part of a formidable defensive partnership with Nemanja Vidic. Despite their shorter time span together, the number one praised his former team-mate for her work outside of football as well as on the pitch.
https://twitter.com/D_DeGea/status/604665659075739649
Gary Neville enjoyed many seasons alongside Ferdinand for both club and country, and praised the defender for his commitment to the club for over a decade. He also took to Twitter to thank the veteran for his dedication and passion for the Manchester outfit.
https://twitter.com/GNev2/status/604629922892664832
Meanwhile, recent signing Luke Shaw – who joined in the same window that saw Rio Ferdinand head to Queens Park Rangers – didn’t have memories with the dominant centre-back, and opted to support boxer Anthony Joshua in a change on Twitter.
https://twitter.com/LukeShaw3/status/604636006814478336
Rio Ferdinand remains within football nonetheless, with a position in the Football Association to help develop and promote the game.
