It must be made clear that this is NOT the latest book written by Rio Ferdinand but it can be argued that it’s the most revealing. In a 384 page, hardcover autobiography written in 2006, ‘Rio, My Story’ talks about his success on the pitch including high drama in the Champions League, the World Cup and a dramatic Premiership victory with Manchester United. If success on the pitch has kept Ferdinand on the back pages, his off pitch story has made him a regular on the front pages.
For the very first time, Ferdinand reveals all about his infamous missed drugs test, the controversies surrounding both his transfers, his supposed reluctance to re sign for United in 2005 and various sex, driving and anti social behaviour scandals. Beyond the football, Ferdinand’s personal story is sure to fascinate.
Born in Peckham, Rio signed for West Ham as a schoolboy turning professional at the age of 17. He made his debut in May 1996 then went on to play 158 games for the Hammers before transferring to Leeds United in November 2000 with whom he reached the Champions League semi final in 2001. Following his highly impressive performances for England in the 2002 World Cup he joined Manchester United where he has confirmed his status as one of world classiest defenders.
As one reader remarked “If you haven’t ever read a football autobiography, this is a great place to start. A fast entertaining read filled with great English slang and to the point. You can tell that Rio was having fun telling these stories and is not afraid to use a few swear words to get his points across. This isn’t just a glossy children’s biography, it’s definitely a read for adults.”
What now appears to be a chronic run of injuries may well result in Ferdinand being in the twilight of what has been a brilliant career. Future autobiographies will possibly reveal much more but memories of his early years makes this a fascinating book.
Despite great careers at West Ham and Leeds, did Ferdinand enjoy his best years at Old Trafford?
