Anton Ferdinand has poured scorn on suggestions that his elder brother Rio, the Manchester United and England defender, is past his best. Ferdinand Jr, struggling to command a central defensive place at Sunderland, believes the criticism recently aimed at his sibling has been excessive.
"I'm not just saying this just because Rio is my brother but it's all been a bit harsh," he said. "This is the first time Rio's had a bad period since he was playing for West Ham – and that's 10 or 11 years ago. The criticism has been a bit over the top. For a player like Rio to have played in so many top games but to just have had one bad patch in 10 years shows he's got real ability, that he's one of the best."
The Sunderland defender believes his brother will soon regain his most effective form: "I know my brother and I know Rio is going to come back stronger than ever." He is dismayed by the short memories of those throwing verbal stones. "People are doubting that Rio will go to the next World Cup but that's astonishing," he said. "I think Rio's been England's best player in the last two World Cups. It does hurt you when people say these things about your brother but it is just ammo to Rio."
Seven years Anton's senior, the elder Ferdinand has even found time to console his sibling. "We talk all the time," said the 24-year-old, who is determined to show Steve Bruce, Sunderland's manager, precisely why Roy Keane paid West Ham £8m for his services. "I don't have to say much to Rio though because he's been there, done it and worn the T-shirt. He has been through what I am going through.
"Rio wants to help me. He might be the best defender in the world but he wants me to be as good as him if not better and he wants me to achieve everything he's achieved. That's the beauty of having him as my brother."
Omitted from Bruce's last three starting XI's Ferdinand is expected to return against Arsenal at the Stadium of Light on Saturday week in place of the suspended Michael Turner.
"It has been an up and down time for me, but that's football," he said. "Football is for mentally tough people – if you're not, you get found out. You see that with my brother as well. It's something that has been put into me and Rio from a young age by our mum and dad – not to be a quitter.
"I am still enjoying my football. I will always fight my corner and I will get my place back in the team. That's the character I am. Deep down I know what I have to do to get back in. I have not been consistent enough and I have to deal with that. It is up to me now."
