HAPPY NEW YEAR

RIO FERDINAND will be handed a new five-year contract by Manchester United at the end of this season. The club want to make sure there is no messing over his long-term future and plan to get a new contract sorted this summer.

Ferdinand’s reputation has been enhanced since joining United despite an eight-month ban for missing a drugs test.

Recently boss Alex Ferguson said:

“Rio has been in incredible form. He is the best centre-half in the world. You have to remember that he is still only 25 as well.”

Since Ferdinand returned from suspension in September, United have kept 14 clean sheets in 24 games.