Fergie in the dark over the future of Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar
24 Nov 2009 - 16:56:24
Sir Alex Ferguson is still waiting to discover whether Edwin van der Sar intends to extend his career by another season.
Van der Sar celebrated his 39th birthday recently, having started the season on the treatment table after breaking a couple of fingers in a pre-season encounter with Bayern Munich.
The veteran Dutchman's performances have been of their usual top quality, leading to the belief he will sign another one-year contract.
Enlarge Veteran keeper: Fergie is unsure whether Van der Sar will continue next season
Berbatov set to return for Man United in Champions League clash with BesiktasManchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar revels inBarcelona, Real Madrid, Milan and Bayern Munich's 'crazy' Champions League strugglesConfused Foster ponders United exit in battle to retain England No 1 jerseyManchester United continue keeper hunt by handing Michael Langer a trialThat news will not go down well with either Tomasz Kuszczak or BenFoster, who expressed his frustration last week at the bizarresituation he finds himself in - back-up at United and a starter inEngland's last two internationals.
Ferguson remains committed to both men, but he still intends togive Van der Sar as much time as he needs to reach a conclusion abouthis future.
'I don't know his plans,' said the United chief. 'When you get tothat age and have a young family, there are a lot of things toconsider.
'It is usually sometime in December that he outlines his plans and how long he thinks he can go on.
Able deputies: Kuszczak and Foster are both vying to replace Van der Sar
'He is a very intelligent man, who understands his body better than anyone. He will come to the right decision.'
Yet while Ferguson is confident about United's present, he appears equally certain about the future.
While there have been plenty of suggestions that he is seekingreinforcements for his goalkeeping department, the Red Devils chiefinsists he is fully supportive of Kuszczak and Foster, who is tipped toface Besiktas at Old Trafford tomorrow.
'I have said all along, Ben has terrific ability,' said Ferguson.
'He needs plenty of game experience, which he has not got at the moment, but the future rests with him and Tomasz Kuszczak. 'The two of them will fight it out, I am sure of that.'
Berbatov set to return for Man United in Champions League clash with BesiktasManchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar revels inBarcelona, Real Madrid, Milan and Bayern Munich's 'crazy' Champions League strugglesConfused Foster ponders United exit in battle to retain England No 1 jerseyManchester United continue keeper hunt by handing Michael Langer a trial
Explore more:People:Alex Ferguson, Ben Foster, Tomasz Kuszczak, Edwin Van der SarPlaces:United Kingdom
