Ferdinand said: “Yeah I can see why [it’s being mooted] but again I think there’s so many players down the years that ability-wise they might be middle of the road in the squad but what they offer you in terms of character and influence around the dressing room, and standards that they set, is invaluable.
“I think he falls into that category. He’s a fabulous young character who’s got a desire, who understands Chelsea, and I think you need that in the building.
“I understand the Financial Fair Play element but sometimes those ingredients are more important than the finances. And by the way, this kid works at his game.
“You speak to any of the coaches that have coached him from a young kid, up to where he is now. He was in a position where he was on loan, almost carted how here or there, to actually now wearing the armband.”
