Rio Ferdinand agrees with former Manchester United team-mate Wayne Rooney that Cristiano Ronaldo can continue playing until he reaches 40-years-old, insisting that the United ace would be "disappointed" if he isn't.
Ronaldo is set to make his second debut for United this afternoon when they lock horns with Newcastle United at Old Trafford, more than 12 years on from when he last pulled on the famous red shirt.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner returned to United on transfer deadline day from Juventus last week, putting pen to paper on an initial two-year contract, meaning he will be 38 years old by the time that deal reaches its conclusion.
However, the Portugal international, earlier this week, revealed that he hopes to make an impact at Old Trafford over the "next three or four years," suggesting that he has no intention of hanging up his boots anytime soon.
With that said, his former team-mate, Ferdinand, has now admitted that he believes Ronaldo would be "disappointed" with himself if he is still not playing by the time he reaches 40.
As quoted by the Mail, Ferdinand said: "If Ronaldo doesn't get to 40 and isn't playing at the top level he'll be very disappointed.
"I think [Ryan Giggs] Giggsy and [Teddy] Sheringham got to 40 but Ronaldo needs to be the main man and he won't want it any other way."
Ahead of Ferdinand making his admission, fellow former United ace Rooney had delivered a similar verdict, outlining why he believes Ronaldo could follow in Giggs' footsteps and play into his forties.
"The last time he played here, he was more of a runner, a great dribbler, with pace and power," Rooney said.
"Whereas now, he's a goalscorer. I think his game has adapted dramatically.
"His ability is obviously one thing, but then he's also looked after himself massively ... he's still in great condition. It wouldn't surprise me if he's playing until he's 40, like Ryan Giggs did, and still scoring goals.
"His team-mates will have to work a little harder. But if it's anything like last time - towards the last two years of playing with him - the team allowed him to do that because he scores you goals, and goals win you games."
