Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on former Manchester United teammate Robin van Persie.

As the Dutch striker prepares to complete his transfer to Turkish club Fenerbahce, former Red Devils defender Ferdinand took the opportunity to lavish acclaim on the man who managed to score 58 goals in 105 appearance for the Old Trafford outfit.

In a post on Facebook, Ferdinand wrote: "He was actually a better player than I thought he was when he arrived at Manchester United - I had played against him many times vs Arsenal, so I knew he was good but not this good. I think that was the general thought through the squad too.

"As a player he is so silky to watch, great touch, can hold the ball up & bring others into play, timings of his runs, skills & a dream of a left foot....oh and he can finish!"