Manchester United parted company with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Sunday morning to end his promising, but largely frustrating three-year spell in charge of the club.
A memorable 3-1 win over Paris Saint Germain in February 2019 was arguably the stand-out result of Solskjaer's tenure in charge, and helped to convince the United hierarchy to appoint the Norwegian on a full-time basis a month later.
The mood within the camp was a low point in December 2018 following Jose Mourinho's sacking and Solskjaer brought the feel-good factor back during his initial temporary stint in charge.
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It led many to call for his appointment to be made permanent, and those calls were loudest following that unforgettable evening in the French capital.
The Red Devils looked dead and buried after losing a Champions League first-leg tie 2-0 at home to PSG, but progressed to the quarter-finals on away goals following Marcus Rashford's dramatic stoppage-time penalty.
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Two clips have since recirculated on social media, which includes Neville's post-match interview following that PSG victory and Ferdinand's "Ole's at the wheel" comments in BT Sport's analysis of that second-leg tie.
"Ole Gunnar. Three very quick questions for you: How long would you like on your contract? What would you like your salary to be? Where would you like the statue?," Neville asked Solskjaer in quotes published by GiveMeSport.
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Meanwhile, Ferdinand added: "Man United might not thank me but get the contract out, put it on the table, let him write whatever numbers he wants given what he's done since he's come in, and let him sign the contract.
"Ole's at the wheel, man, he's doing his thing. Man United are back. [*rubs hands*]"
Sadly, Man United were not back. Following Solskjaer's permanent appointment in March, the Red Devils endured a dismal end to the season and finished sixth to miss out Champions League qualification for the following season.
A more encouraging third-place finish followed in the 2019/20 season, but United were left to rue three semi-final exits in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and the Europa League.
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The club went one step further and reached the Europa League final last season, only to be beaten by Villarreal and finished second in the Premier League behind Manchester City.
There now appears to be a long way back for United in their bid to challenge for top honours again.
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Rio Ferdinand, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Gary Neville
