Rio: Euro glory is the ultimate

Rio Ferdinand describes the feeling of winning the Champions League as the best he's ever experienced, but, according to the defender, it's the kudos that comes with it that represents the most satisfying part of the achievement.

Ferdinand skippered the Reds to a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Chelsea in Moscow last week to seal Premier League and European glory.

The 29-year-old has been part of a number of trophy triumphs since joining the club in 2002, but insists only now can members of the current squad be talked about in the same breath as past club greats.

"I said before the game that you’re only really considered a great player at this club when you win the Champions League," he told ManUtd.com.

"There have been a lot of top players at United, but to win this competition and be revered by the fans and everyone associated with the club by becoming a European champion sets you apart from everyone else.

"It's the best feeling I’ve ever had. Not many players get to experience it. We want to be back next year and experience this feeling again because it’s fantastic."

Ferdinand also revealed he was next in line to take a penalty had Nicolas Anelka's not been saved by Edwin van der Sar.

"I was next up after Ryan [Giggs] so I was thinking about what I was going to do if Anelka had scored and I had to take mine," when asked how he felt as the Chelsea striker stepped forward.

"All the lads did brilliantly [in the shoot-out]. Look at Nani and Anderson – two young, inexperienced lads in terms of playing in games on this type of stage, yet they stepped up and showed great nerve and courage.

"That speaks volumes for the courage and ability in this squad."