Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sees no reason why Rio Ferdinand cannot win another deal beyond his current new contract.

"Of course, Maldini is an exception and whether Rio wants to go on until he is 40 is another matter," reflected Ferguson.

"But with his athleticism and pace - and the fact he has no weight problems, there is no reason why he cannot play on well into his late 30s.

"His performance against Arsenal last Sunday was absolutely fantastic. Together with Gerard Pique, he took care of all the threats that can arise against Arsenal."