Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has revealed how big an impact Lionel Messi's performances in the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals had on himself and the rest of his squad.
Few players can match the level of success that Ferdinand achieved during his 12-year spell at Old Trafford. The former United defender made 455 appearances for the Reds and scored eight goals, winning six Premier League titles, a FIFA Club World Cup, two League Cups and a Champions League.
The victory over Chelsea in 2008 will live long in the memories of United fans. The penalty shoot-out in Moscow is the last time the Reds lifted the most coveted trophy in Europe, falling agonisingly short at the final hurdle in both 2009 and 2011.