Back to the Manchester United Newsfeed

Rio Ferdinand backs Man United star Cristiano Ronaldo to play into his forties at top level

Rio Ferdinand says Cristiano Ronaldo will be 'very disappointed' if he isn't still performing at the highest level when he reaches the age of 40.

The Portuguese star, 36, is poised to play the first action of his second spell at Manchester United and could feature when they take on Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.

And former United defender Ferdinand expects him to emulate the likes of Ryan Giggs and Teddy Sheringham by playing well into his next decade.

Cristiano Ronaldo is greeted by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after returning to Manchester United
The Portuguese star, 36, has been working hard in training ahead of his second spell at United
United legend Rio Ferdinand (left) and heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (right) have praised Ronaldo for his dedication to being the best he can be

'If Ronaldo doesn't get to 40 and isn't playing at the top level he'll be very disappointed,' Ferdinand said in conversation with heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua for William Hill.