​Man Utd legend Vidic: Van der Sar integral to Ferdinand partnership | OneFootball

Manchester United legend Nemanja Vidic admits goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar was a key part of his central defensive partnership with Rio Ferdinand.

United fans have fond memories of Ferdinand and Vidic making it difficult for the opposition to get a sniff at the United goal.

But Vidic believes Van Der Sar was an integral part of the pair developing their successful partnership, which steered United to several Premier League title triumphs.

"So much is said about the partnership Rio and I had, but I have to mention the role that Edwin played in our relationship. He was a big part of it," Vidic told the United website.

"He was experienced, really good on the ball and he was always there as well. He could see the whole pitch and he was there to help. If I didn't see something or Rio didn't see something, he was there to help.

"What's important with Ed, he was 34 or 35 when he came to United, I think, so he already had so much experience. What's important for us as defenders is to trust your goalkeeper, and we trusted Ed.

"It doesn't matter where the player is shooting from. If he's outside the box, you're not worried that much. You let him shoot because you know Ed will cover that.

"We worked on that too and Ed was good at it, especially in the beginning when we started. Those experienced players give you that calmness that you need in certain situations and Ed was great at it."