Sina Sports News - Troubles are mounting for Manchester United's central defender, Rio Ferdinand, as disclosed by British media, he may be sidelined for as long as eight weeks due to injury, further jeopardizing his position within the team. The World News discloses that Ferdinand’s recurring back injury has raised concerns. He once missed several months of play due to this condition. Now, anxious Manchester United medical staff have requested that Ferdinand rest immediately and seek expert treatment.
In Manchester United's 2-0 victory over Blackburn in the Premier League match, Ferdinand was not included in the lineup, with his back pain affecting his mobility. However, in previous games, despite being at only 75% fitness, Rio continued playing through the pain, hoping to assist the club as much as possible.
Former England manager Graham Taylor believes that Ferdinand has lost the necessary physical condition, making him no longer the top-class defender he once was. Taylor said: "Look at the goal conceded to Torres; Ferdinand struggled to keep up with him. I think he is no longer the excellent player he used to be."
Insider information from Manchester United reveals doubts about whether Ferdinand can overcome his injury troubles. The World News reports a statement from an insider at Manchester United saying: "Leo just hopes to get past these injuries. His first bout with back problems occurred before Manchester United's Champions League quarter-final against Porto last season, and the situation worsened thereafter. Now it has been confirmed that treatment is required, possibly needing four, six, or even eight weeks."
British media disclose that Tottenham Hotspur's astute manager Harry Redknapp sees this as an opportunity, possibly proposing to acquire Ferdinand next summer if the English defender cannot convince Manchester United that he can regain his form.
Regarding this rumor, Redknapp admitted his interest in acquiring Ferdinand but doubted whether Manchester United would let him go. Redknapp said: "I've spoken with Ferdinand and sent him text messages. For me, he remains the best central defender in the world, so outstanding."
"However, it's unlikely he will leave Manchester United unless there's some inside story. Otherwise, it's improbable that he would come to Tottenham."
The "inside story" Redknapp anticipates might refer to Ferguson believing that Ferdinand has entered a decline and decides to sell him. In the past, when Sir Alex believed Van Nistelrooy couldn't recover to his pre-injury level, he sold the Dutchman. However, based on current indications, Ferguson still trusts Ferdinand.
Ferguson recently retaliated against criticisms directed at Ferdinand, saying: "I won't comment on this (Ferdinand's declining form) because I read something in the newspapers. I heard that he's in decline, along with many other things, but I don't believe these will affect my judgment. You can try selecting Manchester United's lineup, but you'll never influence my choices. Try if you must."
Currently, Ferguson continues to trust Ferdinand, hoping that Leo can quickly recover from his injuries and return to his former state. However, concerns remain that this recurrence of injury could impact Ferdinand's recovery. If the English defender fails to play a significant role throughout the season, then Ferguson's stance towards him next summer becomes uncertain, given how everything in football changes rapidly. Moreover, Ferdinand’s involvement in numerous off-field activities—such as film production, modeling for online magazines, and ventures in the catering and television industries—might not align with Ferguson's expectations for a professional athlete's lifestyle.
(Marajo)
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