SOUTHEND United striker Barry Corr hopes to come face to face with one of his most famous former team-mates when Queens Park Rangers visit Roots Hall this evening.

Corr was in the youth team at Leeds United when Rio Ferdinand starred in the senior side at Elland Road.

And, with Ferdinand having now joined QPR after leaving Manchester United, Corr would love to play against him in the pre-season friendly.

“Rio was different class when he was at Leeds and it would be brilliant if he was to play against us tonight,” said Corr.

“In training he was just such a good player and he was a really nice guy as well.

“I remember when he left to go to Man United he went round everyone at the club, including us in the youth team to say goodbye and wish us all the best which I thought was a great touch.

“He won’t remember me or how any idea who I am but it would still be great if I could play against him.”

Ferdinand could well be in action at Roots Hall too after he did not figure for Harry Redknapp’s side at Leyton Orient last night.

Bobby Zamora, who secured QPR’s return to the Premier League with the winning goal in the play-off final against Derby County last May, could be in the QPR side.

But all eyes will be on Ferdinand if he does make an appearance.

The 35-year-old won a host of honours in his 12 years with Manchester United and was capped 81 times by England.