Rio Ferdinand gives brilliant answer to Gary Neville vs. Micah Richards debate

Rio Ferdinand has shared his thoughts on the Gary Neville vs. Micah Richards debate, giving a detailed response.

In a special Manchester derby-themed episode for The Overlap ahead of the FA Cup final, Richards told Neville he was the better player.

"Let's get the elephant out of the room," said the former Manchester City defender. "I was a better player than you, come on."

The ex-Manchester United captain burst out laughing before describing the bold claim as a 'big elephant'.

Roy Keane jumped to his old teammate's defence, saying: "You weren't better than Gary."

Ferdinand has also backed his former club colleague as he spoke glowingly about Neville on his podcast.

Asked if Richards was a better player than Neville, he replied: "He weren't... I think deep down, Micah knows. He knows.

"He was quicker and stronger. No, no... Micah was quicker and stronger."

The former Man United centre-back continued by praising Neville's consistency, adding: "But Gary Neville was like.. consistent man. Consistency is the key word. He was disciplined. He was in defensive duties.

"He was a 7/10 most games. And he developed into being a very good crosser of the ball behind Becks. When Becks left, you saw his crossing the ball improved even then.

"He was a better player than anyone gives him credit for. He plays into that like 'I was a bad player'. He was a top right-back."

Neville forged a stellar career at Man United as he spent his whole career at the club, winning an impressive eight Premier League titles.

He also helped his side win the FA Cup, Football League Cup and the prestigious Champions League.

Neville often plays himself down, but he's one of the best right-backs the Premier League has ever seen.