We grab five minutes with United's star defender Rio Ferdinand We caught up with United’s defensive rock to discuss what…

We grab five minutes with United's star defender Rio Ferdinand

We caught up with United’s defensive rock to discuss what it takes to become a pro, what it’s like walking out at OT and what job he’d have if he wasn't a footballer…

Q: I’d like to know how you managed to succeed in becoming a professional footballer and what inspired you to play football.

A: My inspiration to play football was probably Diego Maradona. He’s the first memory I have of someone doing something really great. I remember in the 1986 World Cup he took on the whole England team and scored. Obviously I wasn’t happy that he scored against England but you had to admire the skill and say, ‘I’d love to be able to do that one day’. I tried my hardest but never really reached that level and obviously I’m a defender now. I think you just have to work hard and always be confident, strive towards your dreams.

Q: If you hadn’t made it as a professional footballer, what type of job do you think you’d be doing now?

A: I’d probably be working in the communities in Peckham, where I grew up. I think I’d be helping out in the youth centres or doing football coaching with kids.

Q: Can you describe what’s it like to walk out to a packed Old Trafford before a big match?

A: It’s the best feeling. When I first signed for United, the first thing I remember doing when I got into the change room was feeling the kit, touching the socks and realising this was a Manchester United kit. When you walk out just before a game and the crowd’s going crazy it’s an amazing feeling. I’ve been fortunate enough to do it for the last six or seven years so hopefully that will continue for a while longer.

Q: At the start of last season, did you ever dream you’d be captaining Manchester United in the Champions League final?

A: No, never. I didn’t think so. I thought we’d have a chance of getting to the final but to be able to lead the side out in that match was like living a dream. And to go on and win it and get our hands on the trophy was brilliant.

Q: What’s it like playing against your Manchester United team-mates at international level? And who’s the most competitive?

A: I’ve played against Giggsy, Ronaldo and Nani. I don’t think I’ve played against many others. I’d really like to play against John O’Shea and Darren Fletcher because they’re from the home countries. Ronny’s quite competitive and Portugal have been lucky to beat us on penalties the last two times we’ve played them. He’s always got that comeback when there are any arguments going on about England and penalties. He’s probably the most competitive.

Q&A: Rio Ferdinand

13TH OCT 2008

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