David Moyes has more in common with Sir Alex Ferguson than might meet the eye. Like his fellow Scot, the former Everton boss is confronting the task, initially, of proving himself as a man worthy of leading the biggest club in the world.
On top of that, Moyes is also being challenged to come up with more and more superlatives to quantify the contribution of the greatest player to have ever graced the Premier League; the one...the only...Ryan Giggs!
For a professional footballer to still be playing at the peak of his powers, perhaps higher, at the age of 40 is remarkable. Whatever the level. For the star that is Ryan Giggs to still be shining brighter than ever at Premier League and Champions League level is out of this world.
Giggs’ role in the Manchester United side may have changed in recent years but whilst he’s no longing bombing down the flanks, tormenting wide midfielders and full backs alike, his influence from a more central role has arguably never been greater.
The former Welsh international was instrumental in last night’s 5-0 win against Bayer Leverkusen – their biggest away win in the competition – and the goal he created for Nani late on confirmed the view that there’s plenty of life left in the old dog yet.
When asked how long Giggs can carry on performing at the highest level, Moyes said he was happy to leave the decision to the player himself. “Ryan will know when it is time to call it a day.” On the evidence of last night that will not be any time soon.
As United secured qualification for the next phase of the Champions League, two days before Giggs’ 40th birthday, Moyes said: “People will question his age but you can't question him as a player. He is fantastic; just a terrific all-round footballer. He is unbelievable. You could even say he is getting better.
“His vision and pass for the last goal for Nani was superb. And his fitness is also incredible. I am lucky to be working with him. The situation with Ryan is he keeps playing and he will tell us when he’s had enough or his time is up. He keeps training and playing and his performances have been great.”
Has Giggs’ recent displays made him a contender for PFA Fans’ Player of the Month or will Wayne Rooney, who contributed four assists last night, get your vote? It’s all down to you....
Source: DSG
