Ferdinand signs contract extension with United

May 23, 2013 - 3:28 PM Manchester, England (Sports Network) - Manchester United announced Thursday that Rio Ferdinand has signed a one-year contract extension to keep the defender at Old Trafford for a 12th season.

Ferdinand joined United in 2002 in a big-money move from Leeds United. He has become a mainstay in the Red Devils defense, helping the club claim six Premier League titles since his arrival.

The 34-year-old called time on his England career last week and is now free to focus on bringing success to United under the guidance of new manager David Moyes.

"I am delighted to have signed for another year and I am looking forward to working with the new manager," said Ferdinand. "Who wouldn't want to play in this fantastic team in front of 75,000 fans each week? 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 (Moyes) and winning many more trophies with this great club."