Ferdinand, Rio Gavin (1978- )

English footballer, who plays for Manchester United and England. A commanding presence in the centre of defence, he is also known for his composure on the ball going forward. In July 2002 he was transferred from Leeds United to Manchester United for £30 million, a world record fee for a defender. He made his international debut in 1997 and has represented England in the 1998, 2002, and 2006 World Cups.

Career highlights

International appearances (1997- ): 52; goals: 1

English League Championship: 2003

English League Cup: 2006

He progressed through the youth academy at West Ham United, playing alongside Frank Lampard and Joe Cole, and made his first team debut in 1996. In November 2000, he moved to Leeds United for £18 million and helped the team reach the semifinals of the 2001 European Champions League. Moving across the Pennines the following year, he helped Manchester United win the 2003 League Championship and the 2006 League Cup. At the end of 2003 he failed to attend a routine drugs test, and was subsequently banned for eight months from January 2004, which meant that he missed the 2004 European Championships.

His younger brother Anton also plays as a defender in the English Premier League, representing West Ham United.