ANTON Ferdinand has taken a swipe at Steve Bruce, suggesting the Sunderland manager did not allow him to fulfil his potential while at the Stadium of Light.

Ferdinand did not enjoy an easy relationship with Bruce, who was never fully convinced about a defender who struggled to string together consistent performances in red and white.

The pair had a serious bust-up a year ago which appeared to have spelled the end for the centre-back.

But he won his place back and had started the season in good form before his deadline day move to Loftus Road. Ferdinand has also revealed that Ukrainian side Dnipro were interested in him.

Ferdinand revealed that the decision not to renew his contract – which had less than one year to run – made his mind up about a move to West London.

“The last two years have been full of ups and downs, as everyone knows, with the manager at Sunderland,” said Ferdinand, whose relationship with Bruce hit rock-bottom a year ago when a furious training-ground argument almost led to him being sold.

“In some ways, I have to thank him, because he’s turned me from a boy into a man.

“Coming back to London, it’s a new me. I feel different to how I was when I left London four years ago, and I’m here to enjoy my football.”

The 26-year-old added: “I feel I haven’t had the chance to prove my potential in the last couple of years.

“That’s a chapter that’s closed in my book now and there’s a new chapter open.

“Hopefully, I will get the opportunity to do it and, if I do, then I’m confident in my ability that I’ll show people that I’m not just someone with potential, but someone who can carry out their potential.”