Rio optimistic of Ronaldo stay

United skipper 'sure' Real target will return for pre-season training

By James Dall   Last updated: 28th June 2008

Rio Ferdinand Cristiano Ronaldo Manchester United

Ferdinand: Hopeful of Ronaldo stay

He is a Manchester United player now, and long may it continue.

Rio Ferdinand on Cristiano Ronaldo
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Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand is hopeful in-demand winger Cristiano Ronaldo will return to the club for pre-season training as normal.

Speculation over Ronaldo's future at United is rife following Real Madrid's public courting of the two-time PFA Players' Player of the Year.

It has been suggested Real are poised to launch a record-breaking offer for the 23-year-old, if he declares that he sees his footballing future away from Old Trafford.

But Ferdinand is 'sure' that the 23-year-old, who is contracted to the club until 2012, will remain with the Red Devils and join up with his team-mates for pre-season as planned.

"Like everyone else, we would love him to be with us next season," Ferdinand told Sky Sports News.

Our best

"When we go into pre-season I am sure Ronaldo will be there with us.

"Yes, I have spoken to him. We have spoken about everything else other from that (speculation). I will let him get on with his holidays.

"He is entitled to a good rest. I am sure when we come back to pre-season and we will have a laugh and a joke about it with him.

"But in all seriousness we want our best players to stay, and Ronnie falls into that category.

"He is a Manchester United player now, and long may it continue."