Rio fired up by young pretenders

RIO FERDINAND has warned the young challengers to his central defensive throne that he has no intention of being eased out of Manchester United.

Earlier this week, Ferdinand spoke enthusiastically about the abilities of Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and £17 million new boy Phil Jones.

Having arrived on tour late due to their participation in the European U21 Championship with England, the latter pair are expected to make their first pre-season appearances in tonight’s encounter with the Chicago Fire.