Giggs signs on again to stay at United beyond 40

One game shy of his 1,000th competitive appearance, Manchester United FC midfielder Ryan Giggs has agreed a one-year contract extension that will expire six months after his 40th birthday.

Giggs signed his first deal in 1990 and made his United debut in March the following year. His latest terms tie him to Old Trafford until summer 2014. The most decorated player in the Premier League era, Giggs has won a remarkable 12 league titles, four FA Cups, two UEFA Champions League crowns, two English League Cups and a UEFA Super Cup.

"What can I say about Ryan that hasn't already been said?" commented Sir Alex Ferguson, Giggs's manager throughout his career. "He is a marvellous player and an exceptional human being. Ryan is an example to us all, the way in which he has, and continues to, look after himself.

"He has fantastic energy for the game and it is wonderful to see. Ryan seems to reach a new milestone every week and to think he now has 23 unbroken years of league goals behind him is truly amazing in the modern game. His form this year shows his ability and his enjoyment of the game are as strong as ever and I am absolutely delighted he has signed a new contract."

The former Welsh international has featured 14 times in the Premier League this season, helping United carve out a 12-point lead. "I am feeling good, enjoying my football more than ever and, most importantly, I feel I am making a contribution to the team," the 39-year-old said. "This is an exciting team to be part of, with great team spirit, and we are again pushing for trophies as we head towards the business end of the season."

A used substitute in the first leg in the Spanish capital, Giggs will hope to be involved on Tuesday when United welcome Real Madrid CF for the second instalment of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie.