Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Rio Ferdinand can follow Gary Neville's example and fight back from his latest calf injury.
Ferguson reported it was not related to the back issues that have badly affected Ferdinand over the last few years, but the player's inability to put together a long sequence of games is becoming an increasing concern at Old Trafford.
"Gary Neville suffered with injuries in his 30s and made comebacks time and time again but eventually he realised it was too much and retired," Ferguson said. "He was 36 and had had a great career. Rio's 32 and has plenty of years ahead. He's had a few injuries over the last few years, which I'm sure is a concern for him because he's still capable of getting back and playing at the top level. He needs to take the example of Gary Neville, and I'm sure he sees that.
"He's desperate to get back and he will get back, but obviously we're just unlucky that this calf injury has lasted too long."
