Manchester United captain Harry Maguire says Rio Ferdinand took defending to ‘another level’ and showed him the level he’d have to reach to get to Old Trafford.
Maguire became the most expensive defender of all-time when he moved to United in a £80m deal last summer but the title was once held by Ferdinand.
After a sensational 2002 World Cup campaign with England, Ferdinand sealed a £29.1m move to the Theatre of Dreams from rivals Leeds United and he won six Premier League titles during a trophy-laden 11 years at the club.
Much was made of Maguire’s price tag after his move but his form in recent months has been superb and the former Leicester man says he’s been inspired by Ferdinand.
‘Rio Ferdinand took defending to another level, in terms of bringing the ball out from the back, stepping in and committing players,’ said Maguire.
‘He’s the player who made me open my eyes and think ‘that’s what you need to be a top centre-back.’
Maguire was made United captain following Ashley Young’s move to Inter Milan in January.
United were on a 12-match unbeaten run before the coronavirus outbreak halted the Premier League season.
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