Thirty nine year old United’s midfielder Ryan Giggs finally became probably the only player in recent times to play 1000 competitive matches. Untied last played match against Real Madrid was the benchmark for him where he actively participated and achieved this magic figure. Actually, the game of soccer has become harder to survive in, especially for mature players, perhaps a player with a thirty plus age is often considered as a retired one, but Giggs changed this old belief and managed to remain fit to play up to this milestone. Out of his 1000 played matches, 932 were for his club United and 64 were for Wales, and remaining four for England’s Olympic team. He enjoyed every bit of his 22 years old breathing career where he won many titles for his team besides earning lots of respect in the soccer fraternity. Actually, he was not playing just to complete his tally; perhaps he has been an integral part of United’s A-team; his last goal came in the last month where he scored in the 2-0 victory against Queens Park Rangers.
Even now, he has not hinted any stoppage coz he recently signed one year deal with United to play for the club until his fortieth birthday. Who knows; if he maintains himself and signs more extensions for his club. In contemporary soccer, he is rather the most decorated player with as many as 12 EPL titles, 4 FA cups, and 2 Champions league trophies which make him a respected soccer player in his forties. No one had imagined that a 17 year old substitute can be a long lasting player for United when he made his first match appearance back in 1991. His journey has been full of pleasure and with some of the remarkable performances for him and as well his clubs. Who else has played 100 matches recently?
Manchester United manager Ferguson gave his homage to him by hinting his selection in the last match by saying, “Nothing but the best for the best, so Ryan will be in the squad tonight and all being well will play a part in what is sure to be a fantastic match as he celebrates his 1,000th appearance. Ryan has been unbelievable over the years and he is still playing a part, so much so that we have been able to give him a further one-year contract. I have to add my decision to include him is not totally because I have gone soft: it’s because there is nothing to beat ability and experience when it comes to the big occasions, and Ryan has plenty of both of these qualities.”