Rio Ferdinand could make a shocking return to his former club to help out in what has been a terrible season for West Ham United.

The 38-year old defender was with the Premier League outfit before his big money move to Old Trafford to play under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2002. Manchester United broke the world record for a defender, paying £18 million for the Hammers to release him.

Ferdinand could see a return to the club after 14 years as he promised to help current coach Slaven Bilic with the team’s defensive woes. The club has conceded 29 goals in 14 games, hampering their chances of having another great season as the last campaign. The former Red Devils defender is hoping to help as a defensive coach in a bid to change the team’s poor record. Aside Swansea’s 31, United’s goal allowed is the worse defensive record in the Premier League now.

The club’s management discussed the issue with Bilic this week, whilst reassuring him that his job was safe. The move is borne out of a deep concern about he defensive sloppiness this term.

Ferdinand is a pundit for BT Sport and he would retain his well-paid job, while he contributes to his former club. Bilic still holds the final say but he is under a lot of pressure to perform. The club were looking for an improvement after finishing in the top six last year but the season has been disappointing, so Bilic would likely accept any help before things get messier.

Sam Allardyce in the past reached out to Teddy Sheringham to be the attacking coach on a part time basis back in 2014. With West Ham in 17th position, losing three and drawing two in their last five games, it is really not a good time.