27 March 2005    
Exclusive: Rio Ferdinand interview

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In an exclusive interview with TheFA.com, Rio Ferdinand says his relationship with John Terry is developing well.

The two have only played a handful of games together but Rio was confident that the partnership is coming on well. "It was good - time will tell," he said.

"We felt comfortable today and we've felt comfortable playing with each other before.

"It doesn't happen overnight but the more games we play together the more we'll get to know each other."

Joe Cole was handed the responsibility of England's left-side of midfield and the Chelsea man responded with a great performance, which included scoring the first goal of the game.

Rio said: "He got the all-important first goal which was fantastic for us. He's matured quickly in his football and we got the rewards today."

It was a great atmosphere inside Old Trafford and, after England had scored three goals in six second-half minutes, Rio said it was a game which the players could enjoy.

"The fans made it a great atmosphere today. They were upbeat [and] it was a good day to play football. When it's 4-0 you can relax a little bit."

One of England's best players on the pitch was 19-year-old Wayne Rooney, who once again showed maturity beyond his years.

The Manchester United striker was involved everywhere and it was only surprising that he didn't manage to get himself on the scoresheet.

"He tried to shoot from the half-way line when he knew he was coming off," Rio added. "He's a striker, he wants to score goals."

To watch the full exclusive TheFA.com interview with Rio, click on the links above.