Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has explained how "desperately" he wanted to renew his contract with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side after signing a new deal on Thursday, which will keep the England international at Old Trafford until 2013.

The 29-year-old was initially discovered by Queens Park Rangers, however despite interest from QPR, Ferdinand signed for Harry Redknapp’s West Ham United as a schoolboy in 1992, where he established himself a strong centre-back.

Ferdinand moved to Leeds United in November 2000 for a fee of £18million, becoming the world’s most expensive defender in the process.

Since his move to Manchester United in 2002, Ferdinand has cemented his place not only in the United team, which he has captained on many occasions, but also in the England team.

He has been instrumental in Manchester United retaining the Premier League title this season and reaching the Champions League Final, where they face Premiership rivals Chelsea.

"To be able to stay at Manchester United for another five years is something I wanted desperately," said Ferdinand after completing the extension.

"This is a fantastic club and I am definitely very happy after signing a new contract."