Rio Ferdinand lined up for Man Utd return as Glazers try to lure ex-star back

Manchester United are giving serious consideration to bringing Rio Ferdinand back to the club as their new sporting director.

The Old Trafford legend played more than 300 times for the club in 12 seasons and it is claims talks have already been held.

The Glazer family, United’s owners, have wanted the ex-defender to work for them for a number of years.

But according to the MailOnline , executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has already met with the former England centre-back.

Ferdinand is a six-time Premier League winner can add know-how and passion to the role, the owners say.

Only personal circumstances have stopped Rio agreeing before
(Image: PA)

Mike Phelan has also reportedly held talks over the technical director position.

No decision has been reached on either position.

Manchester United are struggling to make the Champions League and realistically must win their final two matches to reach the top four.

“I don’t think we can give up until it’s theoretically over, but of course it’s a big mountain to climb,” said Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the club’s manager.

He was a hero in his playing days – and fans back a return
(Image: Reuters)

“We need to focus on those last two games, do our best for ourselves, win games and see what the other games throw up. The end of a season throws up a few marginal decisions, strange results, so anything can happen.

”We still want to finish the season on a high and let’s see where that takes us now. Let’s see how many points we can get.“

The manager has also backed his goalkeeper after a torrid second half to the season.

David de Gea made a big error in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea which could prove so costly.

Ed Woodward needs to brings supporters some good news
(Image: Getty Images)

He said: “David has been a fantastic keeper at this club, his reaction after Manchester City was good and I was confident in him. He knows he could do better with their goal but it’s one of those things again.”

“David has been unbelievable. We support each other.

“There is no chance anyone can blame him for losing points. He knows he could have had that shot but that is football.

“David is one who likes to play games and I will have chats with him and he will respond in the right way.”