Rio Ferdinand comments on Leeds United WhatsApp group and delivers Elland Road verdict

Rio Ferdinand says he is pleased to see Leeds United back in the Premier League and has paid tribute to the club’s fanbase, having admitted his time at Elland Road was one of the most enjoyable in his career.

Ferdinand played 73 matches for Leeds between 2000 and 2002 before crossing the controversial divide and signing for Manchester United in a £30m deal – a British record deal at the time.

During his stint in Yorkshire, Ferdinand was part of the side that made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2001. His move to Manchester United the year after promoted an angry reaction from Leeds supporters, but Ferdinand still reveres the passion of the fanbase.

“The fans don’t remember me with great fondness as I moved to Manchester United, obviously big rivals. But I had a great time,” he told Optus Sport.

“I always say it was one of the most enjoyable times in my career. We got to the semi finals (of the Champions League).It’s great to see them get back (in the Premier League). That’s where they belong, they deserve to be.

“Their fanbase is phenomenal, a one-club city. They could fill out that stadium two or three times over I’m sure, if it was any bigger. It’s a great environment and atmosphere when you’re down there.”

Ferdinand says he still keeps in contact with some of his former Leeds teammates and was sent images of the promotion bus parade by one ex-colleague. “All the guys that played during my time at Leeds, we’ve got a WhatsApp group,” he said.

“Dom Matteo was on the parade bus last week, and he was sending us all the pictures and videos from there. So yeah, we’re still connected.”

The backlash to Ferdinand’s move to Manchester United ended with police advising him not to return to the city for the time being. Speaking about the move in 2020, the defender insisted he did not realise the rivalry was so deep.

“I didn’t see it like that. I didn’t understand or know the extent of the rivalry between the two clubs until I signed,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live. “Until I signed for Man United I didn’t realise at all.