Rio Ferdinand has continued to be linked to the world of football from the journalism side, being a regular in the comments of the Premier League in England, but the former Manchester United and West Ham defender has also stood out as one of the few who speak openly about his problems with alcohol.
“When I was young I was crazy, I could spend all day drinking, I could drink ten pints and then switch to vodka,” Ferdinand said.
“I had had three brandies with Cola-Cola and I was in the players’ room. A utility man came in and told me I had to get dressed, that I was called up. I still had a glass in hand.
“Please don’t let me in, three brandies with Coca-Cola, I can’t get into this field. And then I came in.” Ferdinand added.
Ferdinand was the best defender of his times and his ability to function as the backbone of United was simply remarkable. He was the main man behind United’s strong backline which led to him playing a huge role in the team.
The 42 year-old man added about his time at West Ham and a specific game, against Arsenal in the 96/97 season in which he confessed to having played drunk because Paulo Futre.
The Portuguese gave up playing with the Hammers when he refused to play without the No.10 shirt, he ended up on the bench.
“At West Ham there was a drinking culture , we always drank after games. From that time I have gaps, people ask me about results with the team and I don’t remember.” Ferdinand said.
