THE BODY DOCTOR

Last updated : 22 October 2004 By Editor

Rio Ferdinand has explained how he was able to return to the first time after such a long time out without seeming to have lost his fitness level. He has put it down to fitness guru Dave Marshall, who he has known since he was a
youngster at West Ham

"It was a long road back and Dave drove me on to come back fitter.

"He was always there when I needed him, making sure I was ready as soon as
the ban was over.

"I've already spoken about my manager Alex Ferguson and England boss Sven
Goran Eriksson, who were extremely supportive. There were also my friends and family, who helped me enormously, and then there are people like Dave."

Ferdinand also used a motivational expert called Keith Power.

"Keith was a big help to me as well.

"He was someone I talked to a lot and he helped keep my focus on the
comeback.

"He made sure I was always thinking positively."