Ferdinand: Ronaldo transfer talk has taken gloss off our magical double triumph

By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 11:30 AM on 20th July 2008

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Rio Ferdinand admits the Cristiano Ronaldo transfer circus has overshadowed what should have been a summer spent basking in the glory of Manchester United's double-winning season.

Red Devils manager Sir Alex Ferguson appeared to put an end to the protracted affair this week when he insisted the 23-year-old winger will stay at Old Trafford, after weeks of doubt over whether he would get his 'dream' move to Real Madrid.

Ferdinand, captain in Gary Neville's absence last season, is disappointed that the gloss has been taken off United's Premier League and European Cup triumphs.

Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs got their hands on the game's most treasured club prize in May after Manchester United beat Chelsea on an unforgettable night in Moscow

But he insists Ronaldo will be welcomed back into the dressing room when he recovers from recent ankle surgery.

'This summer, given the season we've just had, should have been a time to think about our achievements,' Ferdinand said.

'In the end that became impossible because of the stuff going on with Cristiano.'

He added: 'The players can't wait to see him back. There won't be any problems
between Cristiano and the rest of the squad because we have always stood by what
Sir Alex Ferguson has said all along - Cristiano will be a United player next season.

'Cristiano is a great guy. He never has any problems with anyone in the squad
and I'm sure that will be the same when he comes back through the door.'

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