Former West Ham United boss Glenn Roeder believes Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand needs to emerge from the shadow of his brother Rio, the Manchester United star.

Roeder, who nurtured Anton through West Ham's academy and gave him his senior debut, said seven years ago that Anton's biggest obstacle would be his name.

"I still believe that," Roeder told the Daily Mail. "It's so hard for any young sportsman to follow a brother who is so good. Anton will say it isn't but it is. Rio is not just good. He is a supremo."

"Anton needs to keep his head down and work hard.

"He had a period at West Ham when he took his eye off the ball and I think he needs a manager who will be tough to get the best out of him.

"He needs someone who will point out mistakes if he makes them and not let him get away with them. Don't let him slip into bad habits. He is a good lad, a good listener. I liked working with him.

"Overall, I think he has surprised a few people but I'd say there's more to come. He is still about potential. Centre half is an old man's position."