Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has admitted that he has to improve following his recent performances.

The 34-year-old, along with defensive partner Nemanja Vidic, were criticised following United's derby defeat to Manchester City a fortnight ago.

Ferdinand also started in the North-West outfit's 2-1 loss to West Bromwich Albion the following week.

A fan wrote to the centre-back on Twitter saying, "i love your defending man," to which Ferdinand replied with: "you missed my last couple of games obviously. #WillDoBetter."

United, who have lost three of their first six Premier League matches, take on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light tomorrow.