Ferguson faith in Ferdinand

The Red Devils' centre-back came in for criticism from former England manager Graham Taylor at the weekend.

Taylor claimed Ferdinand's best years are behind him following a recent run of poor form. But Ferguson disagrees totally.

He said: "In my time here, we have always had one of our star players finding he gets criticised when he has a little blip.

"It seems to be part and parcel of being a player at Manchester United. We are all aware of that.

"No player likes to be criticised. We all like to be loved and want arms around our shoulders at times.

"But he will come out of it - there is no question about that.

"There is no discernible depreciation in his qualities - none at all."