What Rio is saying sounds sensible enough to me, I was one who gave him next to no chance in staying on a season or so ago when he had all the back problems. But now I would hate to think where we would be this season without him, and given Vidic's continued injury situation. Remaining injury free, he is perfect to blood along side the likes of Smalling, Evans, (and which I credit JEs vast improvent largely to playing alonside Rio). Slower pace yes, but still a very asstute CD, and perfect to nuture the less experienced in the squad. I think it's ten / eleven seasons Rio has now been with us, and worth every penny.