England international Rio Ferdinand has extended his contract with Manchester United for another five years, said the Premier League club on Thursday.

"I am delighted Rio has signed a new contract. Rio's contribution this season has been a major factor in our outstanding defensive performance," manager Alex Ferguson told the club website.

The new deal keeps Ferdinand in the Man. Utd to the summer of 2013.

"It is a great honor to be part of this trophy-winning team and to share in the success, which I am sure will continue for many seasons to come," said Ferdinand.

United won the Premier League title on Sunday and face Chelsea in the Champions League final in Moscow next week.

(Xinhua News Agency May 16, 2008)