"Re-United"- Rio Pens New Deal

Rio Ferdiand has ended fears he will leave Old Trafford by signing a new four year deal which will keep at him at the club until June 2009.

There has been persistent speculation towards the back end of last season and throughout the summer that Ferdinand, 26, had been offered a £100,000 a week deal, but was holding out for a figure closer to £120,000 (per week).

Fans have been lambasting Ferdinand of late, calling him a "Chelsea Rent Boy" in the clubs recent 6-1 friendly win over Royal Antwerp. Loyal Supporters also felt Ferdinand was being greedy because of how the club aided him during his 8 month ban from football after he failed to show up for a drugs test.

Ferguson initially defended Ferdinand during the saga, however he then urged the England International to sign, saying that United did not need the speculation surrounding the player and the club. David Gill, United's Cheif Execuitve, also was quick to defend Rio.

"You have to think about your worth. I respect him for that", Gill said.

However, with the contract sealed, United have one less worry off their minds after a summer of discontent at Old Trafford following the friction between the club and loyal supporters following the Malcom Glazer takeover.

With the contract signed, Ferdinand is now expected to play in United's Champions League Qualifier against Debrecen on Tuesday.