Rio Ferdinand will take the Manchester United captain's armband for their tour of South Africa.

The Mail on Sunday says Ferdinand will end his summer nightmare by captaining Manchester United on their world tour set to begin in South Africa.

Ferdinand was axed by England for Euro 2012 and in the spotlight last week over his brother Anton's involvement in John Terry's trial.

He will wear the armband as club captain Nemanja Vidic continues his rehabilitation in Manchester after rupturing his cruciate ligament last season.