Manchester United’s Ryan Giggs has no plans of giving up his playing days as he claims ’40 is the new 30’.
The Welshman will go down as a Red Devils legend for his unparalleled success but the 39-year-old has no plans of hanging up his boots just yet – despite hitting 40 in two months’ time.
Giggs has won a staggering 13 Premier League titles during his tenure at Old Trafford becoming one of the most iconic and successful footballers of all-time.
Reflecting on his veteran status, Giggs told the official Manchester United website: “Apparently 40 is the new 30, so I’m looking forward to it.
“I know it’s quite daunting for some people but you just have to embrace it, not worry too much about it and just enjoy yourself.
“I’ve never really put too much stock in my age – to me, it’s more about how you feel and I feel pretty good at the moment.
“That said, I might try to keep my birthday a secret from all the lads when it comes round on 29 November. That might prove tough, though!”
The left-footed veteran is currently 55 games away from reaching 1,000 appearances in all competitions for the Manchester side.
Over the years Giggs has manipulated his playing style from a pacey winger getting chalk on his boots to being a calming influence across the midfield.
Since signing for the club in 1990 Giggs has been the remaining familiar face at Old Trafford after long standing team-mates such as David Beckham and Gary Neville have retired.
“I definitely feel the effects of playing football these days. Sometimes I’ll see other players who I played alongside – like Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes or Phil Neville – and they have retired already, even though they’re younger than me,” he said.
“I suppose it’s quite funny to think I’m older than them and I’m still going.”
United’s most famous number 11 is sure to play a prominent role in Wednesday’s heated Cup fixture against Liverpool as he will add experience to what is expected to be a young side.
Giggs will be hoping he can be given the chance to impress against fierce rivals Liverpool in League Cup action tomorrow.
Image courtesy of Kagome, with thanks.
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