Rio Ferdinand has signed a new contract at Manchester United which will keep him at Old Trafford until 2013.

The new deal effectively keeps Ferdinand with United for the remainder of his career.

After originally joining the Red Devils in 2002 the former West Ham player has gone on to fulfil his promise of becoming one of the most accomplished defenders in the game.

"Rio's contribution this season has been a major factor in our outstanding defensive performance and I am delighted he has signed a new contract," said manager Alex Ferguson.