The 26-year-old defender will take part in his first ever FA Cup Final on Saturday having missed Manchester United's 3-0 win over Millwall at the Millennium Stadium through suspension.

And he is eager to end a tough season with a trophy after the Old Trafford outfit finished 18 points behind the Premiership champions Chelsea.

"It wouldn’t make up for the disappointment we've had in terms of the league but it would be ideal to finish on a good note and that would mean winning this trophy," Ferdinand said.

"It’s a chance to add silverware to the collection the club has already got. For me personally I've not won The FA Cup and its something I really want to win.

"As a kid I watched all the FA Cup games and Cup Finals. I remember watching them on Saturdays at my uncle's house and to be part of one now is going to amazing for me.

"The game I remember most is The Final between Manchester United and Crystal Palace in 1990 when Ian Wright came on and scored twice. Seeing Wrighty's big teeth smiling when he scored was great.

"With the tradition of The Cup it's just great to be part of it now. All players have a great affection for this tournament.

"After the game last season I went in the dressing room. I was really pleased for the lads, but it was a weird feeling because I was there and it was the first Cup Final I'd ever been to. I was looking around thinking I'd love to be playing today."

Arsenal have been hit by the loss of star striker Thierry Henry, but Ferdinand has insisted that United's task remains a tough one despite the absence of the French international.

"He's going to be missed I'm sure but the players they’ve got to come in have proved they are more than capable. But he's a fantastic player and I'm sure their fans will be disappointed."

Meanwhile, United's Argentine defender Gabriel Heinze is almost certain to miss out on Saturday after failing to recover from his ankle ligament injury picked up against Newcastle three weeks ago.