Rio Ferdinand Asks Young Reds To Rise To The Challenge

Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United's young players need to get into the routine of winning trophies to create a dynasty.

The former England captain was forced off in the opening day win against West Brom with a calf injury.

His defensive partner Nemanja Vidic also picked up a knock and the cornerstones of the United defence are now facing spells on the sidelines.

Yet, Sir Alex Ferguson will draw strength from the fact he can call on the talents of Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling.

Seven of United's aspiring young players finished the game against West Brom, and as a new era gets ushered in at Old Trafford, Ferdinand insists they must embrace United's winning culture.

"Getting that continuity, that smell and taste of success is something that all the young guys who have come into the squad and not won anything yet need to feel."

Continuity

"Getting that continuity, that smell and taste of success is something that all the young guys who have come into the squad and not won anything yet need to feel," he said.


"They need to sense it and become a part of it. I am sure they will enjoy doing that this year."

Having won the league in 2003 - Ferdinand's first year at the club following his £29.1million move from Leeds - United then went three years without winning the title.

But they have followed that up with four championships in five years, and three UEFA Champions League final appearances in four years.

It is a period of their history the former West Ham trainee believes their fans will remember favourably.

Golden

"Maybe people will look back and say this was golden period," he added.

"It is certainly up there as one of the most successful periods in the club's history. It is great to be part of it because the memories of not winning things are awful.

"We won the league in the first season I was here, and then went three years on the bounce without winning it.

"This place is like a morgue after losing a game. It is depressing. You don't want to walk to the shops. You are embarrassed walking anywhere.

"If you want to be successful, you have to remember those feelings and hope they don't come back."
SkySports