London - Rio Ferdinand signed a new five-year contract with English champions Manchester United on Thursday, tying him to the club until 2013. The new deal is expected to mean that Ferdinand, 29, could end his career with United.
"Manchester United is a fantastic club and I am delighted I have signed a new contract," Ferdinand, who had two years of his previous deal to run, said.
"It is a great honour to be part of this trophy winning team and to share in the success, which I am sure, will continue for many seasons to come.
"I would like to thank the manager, the coaching staff, the players and the fans for the tremendous support they have given me since I joined the club."
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was fulsome in his praise for the England defender.
"Rio's contribution this season has been a major factor in our outstanding defensive performance and I am delighted he has signed a new contract," he said.
"He has matured into his role at the club and has shown, when needed, what a great captain and leader he can be."
