Giggs takes United career into 21st year

Ryan Giggs will remain at Manchester United FC until summer 2012 after signing a one-year contract extension with the Premier League leaders.

Giggs, who penned his first professional terms at Old Trafford in 1990 and made his United debut in March the following year, will therefore stretch his Red Devils career into a 22nd season. The 37-year-old has scored 158 goals in 862 appearances, winning 11 Premier League titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups, two UEFA Champions Leagues and a UEFA Super Cup.

The former Wales winger's manager throughout, Sir Alex Ferguson, said: "You run out of words to describe Ryan Giggs. He is a marvellous player and a wonderful man. To have the desire and ability to play at the top level in such a physically demanding position at his age requires a special person. He is still turning in man-of-the-match performances and his experience is so vital for the younger players in the squad."

Giggs added: "All I've ever wanted to do is play for United and I've been lucky enough to do that for 20 years. It's great to know I'm still contributing to the team's success." Giggs has featured in 17 league games and three UEFA Champions League group matches this term. United resume their European campaign at Olympique de Marseille in the round of 16 first leg on Wednesday.

Fellow United stalwart Gary Neville retired this month with immediate effect, while long-serving goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has announced his intention to end his playing days at the conclusion of this season.