Ferdinand stays with United until 2013

(CNN) -- England international defender Rio Ferdinand has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal with Manchester United which contractually ties him to Old Trafford until 2013.

Ferdinand has been outstanding in United's watertight defense this season as they clinched a 10th Premier League title and a place in the Champions League final against Chelsea.

United manager Alex Ferguson has earmarked Ferdinand as a future captain, a role he has performed for England under new coach Fabio Capello.

"Rio has matured into his role at the club and has shown, when needed, what a great captain and leader he can be," said Ferguson. "I am delighted he has signed a new contract," he added.

Ferdinand, 29, joined United from Leeds in 2002 in a massive $60 million transfer, having previously played for West Ham.

He was in the United team which clinched the Premier League title in 2003, but later in the year was the center of a massive controversy after failing to attend a routine drugs test.

It led to an eight-month ban, returning to the United fold in September 2004.

In recent seasons, Ferdinand's central defensive partnership with Nemanja Vidic has played a key role in United's successive championships.

"Manchester United is a fantastic club and I am delighted I have signed a new contract," said Ferdinand.

"It is a great honor to be part of this trophy-winning team and to share in the success."