Rio Ferdinand has said that he has memories he will "cherish forever" from his 12-year spell at Manchester United.

The defender, who joined the side in 2002, has been released by the Old Trafford outfit after they decided not to renew his contract.

The 35-year-old said in a statement: "I have thought long and hard over the last few months about my future, and after 12 fantastic years playing, for what I regard, as the best club in the world, I have decided the time is right for me to move on.

"I joined Manchester United in the hope of winning trophies, and never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined how successful we would be during my time here. There have been so many highlights, playing alongside some great players who have become good friends, winning my first Premier League title and also that fantastic night in Moscow are memories that I will cherish forever.

"Circumstances didn't allow for me to say goodbye the way I would have liked but I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my teammates, staff, the club and the fans for an unbelievable 12 years that I'll never forget. Winning trophies I dreamed about as a kid came true at this great club. I am feeling fit and healthy, ready for a new challenge and looking forward to whatever the future holds for me."

Ferdinand won six Premier League titles, two League Cups, one Champions League title and a Club World Cup title during his time with United.