Sir Alex Ferguson hails Rio Ferdinand's "best season" at Manchester United

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said that Rio Ferdinand has had his "best season" at the club.

Ferdinand, who joined the Red Devils over 10 years ago for a record fee for a defender, has started more games than any other United centre-back this season.

"Rio Ferdinand has had his best season at the club," Ferguson is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"We have had continual problems with the centre-backs being fit. Nemanja Vidic has missed half a season, Chris Smalling has missed most of the season, Phil Jones missed a good bit and Jonny Evans missed parts but Rio has managed his situation very well.

"Although we have left him out of certain games because we have managed him the right way, at the most important times he has been there."

Ferdinand, 34, was named in the PFA team of the year last weekend.