Sir Alex Ferguson: Ryan Giggs the great

He may be just a month away from his 39th birthday but Ryan Giggs once again produced another superhuman effort in the Reds' enthralling Capital One Cup tie at Chelsea on Wednesday night.

The Welshman, who turns 39 on 29 November, scored twice in the 5-4 extra-time defeat at Stamford Bridge and led by example throughout the 120-minute contest.

Giggs has now scored in 23 separate seasons since making his debut in March 1991 and has taken his goals tally to 165 in all competitions and is now eighth in the all-time scoring charts. He also, of course, remains way out in front in the appearance stakes as United's highest-ever appearance maker with 917 matches under his belt.

Still going strong
"In Ryan we saw a player of absolutely unbelievable proportions in terms of playing 120 minutes when he's 39 next month. He was absolutely magnificent and is a real credit to himself and the game." - Sir Alex Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson waxed lyrical about the midfielder after the Cup defeat, insisting Giggs' performances on the pitch are something footballers everywhere should take note of.

"He is an example to all the players on that pitch, including the Chelsea players," the boss told Sky Sports and MUTV.

"In Ryan we saw a player of absolutely unbelievable proportions in terms of playing 120 minutes when he's 39 next month.

"He was absolutely magnificent and is a real credit to himself and the game."