Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has insisted that he and his teammates are raring to go ahead of the new season.

The Red Devils have enjoyed an indifferent pre-season that included defeat in Ferdinand's testimonial on Friday.

The former England defender, though, has insisted the team want to start well, beginning with victory in the Community Shield today.

"The team is feeling good," Ferdinand told the club's official website. "We have been training really hard and it has been a tough pre-season physically, but we have enjoyed it and we've had a really good time.

"Now we are looking forward to getting into the games and the nitty gritty. It has been a good tour in terms of preparation and the manager has been able to get to know the players, which is a great thing.

"Now we have got the Community Shield game and an opportunity to grab some silverware which would be great."

United take on Wigan Athletic in the Community Shield at 2pm today.