Four years ago maybe we thought we were inferior to Brazil, subconsciously we didn't see ourselves beating them. Now we believe in ourselves, we can be on the pitch with any team in the world and think we can win.

During a radio interview on The Chris Moyles Show in October 2006 Ferdinand attracted two listener complaints and criticism from gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell when he called Moyles a faggot followed by "I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry. He won the Premier League his first major club honour in a successful first season at the club. During the case it was alleged that then England captain Ferdinand had affairs with ten different women.

Ferdinand began his football career playing for various youth teams finally settling at West Ham United where he progressed through the youth ranks and made his professional Premier League debut in 1996. His achievements and footballing potential attracted Leeds United and he transferred to the club for a record-breaking fee of £18 million. Ferdinand has three children Lorenz Tate and Tia with his wife Rebecca Ellison.