Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists defender Rio Ferdinand can still perform at top-flight level.
Ferdinand has been plagued by injury over the past couple of seasons and may not play again this season because of a calf injury he suffered in the warm-up before the February 5 defeat at Wolves.
There has since been speculation that the England captain, who has made just 15 appearances this season, may not be able to carry on competing in the Premier League.
But Ferguson has rubbished those reports, and claims the 32-year-old is far from finished.
The United boss said: “Rio has plenty of years ahead of him.
“He has had a few injuries over the last few years I am sure that are a concern for him. But he is still capable of coming back and playing at the top level.
“He only needs the example of Gary Neville. I am sure he sees that.
“He is desperate to get back and he will.”