The fans can see it, as can manager Alex Ferguson, but Ferdinand has never been one to blow his own trumpet. Despite being the star of the show in his comeback game against Liverpool last Monday, and again at White Hart Lane on Saturday, modesty prevails.
The England defender, 25, said: "I’m playing with some great players which has made it easier for me. But we should always get results and not struggle no matter what team we’ve got out there."
Whatever his argument, two wins from his two outings is no coincidence. Suddenly, after all the gloom and doom pervading the corridors of Old Trafford, United have shot up to fifth in the Premiership, level on points with fourth-placed Bolton. They won this one thanks to a controversial 42nd-minute penalty converted by Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Roy Carroll, in goal, barely had a save to make as his defence, marshalled by Ferdinand, ensured livewires like Jermain Defoe were kept out of the danger zone. With £30million sensation Wayne Rooney poised to make his United debut at home to Fenerbahce in the Champions League tomorrow night, Fergie’s world looks a brighter place.'