Hartson, Raul And Davies Problematic Opponents For Rio

Friday, 30 October 09, 04:05 AM · Comments (0)

Rio Ferdinand has struggled against most of the players he has come up against this season.

But when pressed to come up with the opponents he has had most problems facing, Ferdinand named John Hartson, Raul and Kevin Davies, although Fernando Torres outmuscled him for Liverpool's first goal last Sunday.

"There's always a different threat with different players."

"In training, John Hartson (Ferdinand's team-mate for two years at West Ham) was ridiculous. You'd train with him and get eight studs in your ear. On a Friday, he would attack you from all angles."

"Raul in the Champions League is one of the hardest I've had to play against. He doesn't play against you, he plays away from you. He asks you to come and mark him or let him hurt you with his passing."

"Kevin Davies is difficult to play against – very physical."

"But there's not one player in particular who sticks out."

On the other hand, even with Cristiano Ronaldo, Ferdinand believes Manchester United can reclaim pole position and secure a fourth successive title.

"To win the Premier League would be fantastic. It would be a great achievement, especially after all the changes in the summer."

"Anything after that would be a bonus."

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