Why Rio Ferdinand thinks he 'catapulted' former Man United teammate Gerard Pique to greatness

Former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique shocked the footballing world when he announced his retirement last week.

The centre-back said he would be hanging up his boots following Barcelona's league game with Almeria on Saturday. The 35-year-old was given a superb reception in the 2-0 win at Camp Nou.

A host of former teammates have been quick to congratulate the Spain international on what has been a glittering career that has seen him taste success in the World Cup, European Championship and Champions League. And Rio Ferdinand, who played with Pique at Old Trafford between 2004 and 2008, joined the well-wishers in sending a tongue-in-cheek tribute to his former teammate.

He wrote on Instagram: "Gerard. My man, what a career! Many people don’t know but I actually played one of the biggest parts in making you. The fact that myself and Nemanja (Vidic) were playing at Man Utd you never had a chance… so you had to move on to Barcelona!!!

"That was my part in catapulting you to greatness!! But seriously, when you went to Barcelona I don’t even think that you could imagine your career would go as crazy as it went – trophies galore with both club and country."

Ferdinand went on to add: "I hear debates about the best CBs of this era and I don’t see your name enough."