RIO IS STILL SETTLING IN

Last updated : 04 April 2003 By Editor
Rio has had a mixed start to his United career but he still
feels that he is in a settling in period:

"It takes a long time,

"On the pitch you've got to get used to playing with your
new team-mates and off it, it's new surroundings and new
people.

"It's been stop-start because I have had a few injuries,
which I've never suffered from before, but since the turn of
the year I've played a number of games in quick succession
which has helped a lot."

Ferdinand has found a difference in expectations at United
compared to other clubs:

"The big difference about being here, compared to West Ham
in particular, is that if you were playing away at Liverpool
or Arsenal you'd be delighted to get a draw.

"Here, we go to win every game and if you come away with a
draw, you take it as two points lost.

"Also, you rarely catch teams on an off-day. They always
come highly motivated and play to the best of their ability.

"They raise their game against us and you have to be able to
deal with it.

"Having said that, I didn't expect playing for United to be
a bed of roses. I knew I was joining a club where not
winning anything is regarded as a big disappointment."

Looking back at the Worthington Cup Final, Rio feels we were
unlucky not to win:

"Liverpool had a bit of luck that day, although in the first
half we played in front of them too much.

"The second half was more open but they kept fairly solid
and their goalkeeper made the difference. It just wasn't our
day."

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