Rio Ferdinand 'offers services to West Ham United as defensive coach'

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has reportedly offered to take on a coaching role at West Ham United in an attempt to plug their leaky backline.

The Hammers shipped five more goals at home to Arsenal on Saturday evening to make it 29 conceded in the Premier League this term - the second-most in the division after Swansea City.

According to the Daily Mail, Ferdinand is willing to return to his old stamping ground to help stop the rot, but it is unknown whether Slaven Bilic - who admits that he is "feeling the pressure" - is willing to accept his former teammate's offer.

Ferdinand started his career at Upton Park, spending four years in the club's youth ranks and a further four years in the senior fold, before spells at Leeds United, Man United and Queens Park Rangers.