Rio has United future - Fergie

The £29.1million defender has struggled to maintain his fitness for the last three seasons, making just 72 appearances out of a possible 161 since United returned home from the 2008 World Club Cup. The 32-year-old has already suffered two minor injuries this term, which together with the fine form of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans during United's exceptional start to the campaign has led many to conclude Ferdinand's 10th season at United will be his last. However, Ferguson insists that is not the case. After drafting Ferdinand back into his side for the recent 5-0 hammering of Bolton, the Scot is planning to do the same again tomorrow evening at Stoke. "Rio's [injury] record is fact," said Ferguson. "We wish it was better but we use him to our advantage when we have him available because you cannot dismiss the experience he brings. "He missed a couple [of matches] after Bolton and one after West Brom, but I don't mind that because with the squad we have got we utilise him the way we want to." Despite the frequency of his absences, Ferdinand always seems to find a way of reaching top form instantly when he does return. "He walked through the game at Bolton," Ferguson added. "We are absolutely delighted with Smalling, Evans and Jones. The three of them have been absolutely magnificent. They are the long-term future. "But there are occasions when you bring in the experience Rio offers because it does make a difference. The young players know that. "They also know there will be a time when they are left out for the right reasons and knowing they will get better the next time they come in."