David Moyes delighted after Rio Ferdinand agrees to stay at Manchester United with new one-year contract

The defender has enjoyed a fine season

Rio Ferdinand (GETTY IMAGES)

Rio Ferdinand has ended speculation that he could leave Old Trafford this summer by signing a new contract at Manchester United.

The retired England defender has put pen to paper on a one-year extension.

"I am delighted to have signed for another year and I am looking forward to working with the new manager," said Ferdinand.

The news was also warmly greeted by new manager David Moyes.

"It is clear for everyone to see that Rio has had one of his best seasons with the club," he said.

"Even from the outside you can see what a big character Rio is around the dressing room.

"I am delighted he has signed a new contract and I am looking forward to working with him."

It had become clear over recent months that Ferdinand's future lay at United, with the player and club signalling a willingness to agree a deal. That he announced his retirement from the international set up also indicated his desire to concentrate on club football matters.

Today's announcement means Ferdinand will enter his 12th season as a United player next term.

He will be playing under Moyes next year and had already been openly speaking about a desire to work with the former Everton manager.

Nevertheless, the commitment of someone who has just won his sixth Premier League title is a further seal of approval for Moyes, who is facing a tough baptism at United given he has never won any major silverware despite his impressive reputation.

It also represents good news for Ed Woodward, who will replace David Gill as chief executive in the summer.

Woodward has been responsible for negotiating with Ferdinand's team as he also gets used to the demands of his new role.

Ferdinand has been on a friend's stag celebrations in Marbella this week.

However, he will be present for the start of pre-season training ahead of this summer's tour to Australia and the Far East.

"Who wouldn't want to play in this fantastic team in front of 75,000 fans each week?" said Ferdinand.

"It has been an incredible journey and I am glad it will continue.

"I can now fully concentrate on my club career, which has worked well for me over the past few years.

"This is a great team to be part of and we are now moving into a new era with the club which is very exciting.

"I am really looking forward to working with (David Moyes) and winning many more trophies with this great club."