FERDINAND GETS THE BIRD AGAIN

Last updated : 20 July 2005 By Ed

Rio gets more grief from United's travelling support as United win 6-0 at Peterborough

This from the Sanctuary:

"Rio got booed - far from a minority - and the usual chants, to which he replied with the fingers over lips 'shh' gesture. cheeky cunt."

United warmed up for their Far East tour in front of a sell-out 15,400 crowd as fans turned out in force to celebrate Barry Fry's testimonial match.

A Ruud hat-trick, two Ronaldo and a Giuseppe Rossi strike saw United romp home.

The Daily Mail:

Sir Alex Ferguson's anger at Rio Ferdinand descended into open warfare last night as he delivered an incredible snub to his contract rebel.

The England defender was overlooked - amazingly in favour of the youthful Wayne Rooney - who was handed the captain's armband for Barry Fry's testimonial in a 15,400 sell-out at Peterborough.

Ferdinand was comfortably the most senior member of the XI fielded by Ferguson in the first half at London Road. But Ferguson handed the responsibility to his young striker who has been involved in several high-profile confrontations with referees since his move last summer.