Former Manchester United player John O'Shea believes that Rio Ferdinand is one of the best defenders to have ever played for the club.

Ferdinand, 34, joined the Red Devils 10 years ago and that landmark will be acknowledged on Friday evening when United face Sevilla at Old Trafford in his testimonial match.

Ahead of that game, O'Shea, now at Sunderland, has hailed the contribution that the centre-back has made during his stint with the champions.

"Rio has always been one of Europe's top defenders and could have joined different clubs at any time, but he's proud to win trophies for United and knows it's the best club for him. You have to respect that. Obviously, the club have shown a lot of loyalty to him too," the Irishman told the club's official website.

"Fans ask where he ranks amongst the great United defenders, and I have to say, he's got to be up there. It's difficult to compare different generations, for obvious reasons, but you can't argue with his medal collection. There are few better. Such heady praise is more than deserved and I hope he enjoys his testimonial on Friday."

Ferdinand has amassed 430 appearances for United, scoring eight goals in the process.