Rio Ferdinand is the top-rated central defender in the Premiership – that is according to the league's official player rankings, Actim Index.
Ferdinand was in fine form against Liverpool on Sunday, which the 27-year-old capped with a goal the most skilful of forwards would have been proud of. The display earned Rio a place in the Premiership team of the week, elevating him to the league's in-form central defender.
Actim Index measures players' performances through statistical analysis. Rio has contributed one goal, 19 tackles, 15 clearances, eight interceptions, five blocks, three dribbles and 49 passes in 864 minutes of league football this season.
Even more impressive is the partnership Rio has built up with Nemanja Vidic. The pair shut out everything Rafael Benitez's side had to offer at Old Trafford, as they have done in most of the matches since the powerful Vida returned from a broken wrist earlier in the campaign. Since they were paired together, United have conceded two goals in five games, compared to five in five before the Serbian was drafted in against Reading.
Another pleasing influence from defenders has been the goals contribution. Ferdinand isnÂ’t the only defender to get his name on the scoresheet. Vidic (Wigan), Mikael Silvestre (Watford) and John OÂ’Shea (Copenhagen) have chipped in with a goal apiece.
Rio's record this season
Minutes played: 864
Goals: 1
Tackles: 19
Clearances: 15
Interceptions: 8
Blocks: 5
Dribbles: 3
Passes: 49
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