Rio Ferdinand backs Joe Cole for West Ham United success

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has backed midfielder Joe Cole to succeed in his second spell at West Ham United.

The duo played together at Upton Park for two years between 1998 and 2000.

"The era we had there will be part of West Ham's history forever now, with so many players who went on to play for England and win league titles with other clubs," ESPN quotes Ferdinand as saying.

"It is unfortunate for West Ham those players did not stay there and their presence get built upon. That is all history now I suppose.

"But Joe Cole has gone there to rewrite a bit of his own history in the coming months. It would be good to see him do something positive, but not this week. We want to get through this round."

West Ham are away at Manchester United on Wednesday for their FA Cup third-round replay.