David Moyes will definitely have one of the old guard lining up for Manchester United next season, after Rio Ferdinand agreed a one-year deal to extend his stay at Old Trafford by a further year.

It comes as no surprise, with the 34-year-old's representatives recently admitting a deal was under discussion, after Ferdinand had expressed his desire to remain with the club he joined way back in 2002 from Leeds United.

Moyes already has to deal with the absence of Paul Scholes, who retired from the game at the end of the season, while the future of Wayne Rooney is mired in doubt.

So, the fact that Ferdinand will be there to shore up the defense in his first season as United manager will be a relief for the Scot, who takes over from Sir Alex Ferguson next season.

"It is clear for everyone to see that Rio has had one of his best seasons with the club and I think even from the outside you can see what a big character Rio is around the dressing room, so I am delighted he has signed a new contract," Moyes told the club's official website. "I am looking forward to working with him."

Ferdinand, who announced his international retirement recently to concentrate on his club, had a stellar season with United, and was named in the PFA team of the year.

"I am delighted to have signed a new contract," Ferdinand said. "Who wouldn't want to play in this fantastic team in front of 76,000 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 have met with David I am really looking forward to working with him and winning many more trophies with this great club."