Veteran Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs could win
England's Player of the Year award this season if he maintains his
dazzling form, his manager Alex Ferguson said on
Monday.
Despite recently turning 35, Giggs is still regarded as a
match-winner by Ferguson whose injury-hit side can move three
points clear in the Premier League with victory at West Bromwich
Albion on Tuesday.
"He could win the Footballer of the Year award," Ferguson told
United's website on Monday. "And it would be fitting if he did
after the career he has had."
With a long injury list including Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand,
Patrice Evra, Anderson and Owen Hargreaves, the experience of
players like Giggs and Paul Scholes will be invaluable as United
seek their third title in a row.
"Ryan will be offered a new contract, of course," Ferguson said.
"He has been fantastic for us this season -- he seems to be getting
even better with age.
"He seems to be one of those rare people who find that age and
injuries don't catch up with them."
Giggs, who broke United's record for appearances in last
season's Champions League final, has 10 league winners' medals
amongst a sackful of silverware and knows the value of eking out
victories in potentially tricky away games.
"We've just got to approach every match with the right attitude
otherwise we'll get beaten," Giggs said before Tuesday's trip to
West Brom.
"We're just focused on getting the three points and staying top.
Once you hit the front you want to stay there and that's definitely
our aim."
United are seeking an 11th consecutive clean sheet in the
league, a record run stretching back to November 8 when they lost
2-1 at Arsenal.