Giggs to stay at Old Trafford until 2009

Only three weeks after Giggs confirmed tentative talks had begun over an extension to his present deal, which was due to expire in the summer, negotiations have reached a successful conclusion.

The long-serving winger's new deal will keep him at Old Trafford until 2009, extending his first-team career with the Red Devils to an incredible 18 years.

Not only does it mean the 33-year-old will get the chance to add yet more medals to a haul that already includes nine Premier League titles, four FA Cups and a Champions League success in 1999, it is now virtually certain he will surpass Sir Bobby Charlton's club appearance record.

Currently 32 adrift of the legendary England World Cup winner, Giggs could even break the record before the current campaign is out should his fitness hold up.

And, if the former Wales skipper continues to feel as good as he does just now, his new contract may not represent the end of his stay at United.

"We said a couple of years ago that would look at it season-by-season - which is what we have done," Giggs told MUTV.

"I am delighted to get it sorted out. I feel as fit as ever so I hope there will be a couple more.

"A lot has changed over the years but I am enjoying my football more than ever. The nearer you get to the end of your career you want to enjoy it as much as you can."

Only once in all his time at United has Giggs fallen badly out of favour with the Red Devils faithful.

When he was booed during a League Cup semi-final with Blackburn at Old Trafford in January 2003, it appeared his time at United was drawing to an end.

Instead, Giggs rallied and went on to enjoy what, in his eyes, was his best season as a professional.

And, although the Cardiff-born player accepts he will probably be used more sparingly by Sir Alex Ferguson over the coming years, his retirement from international football at the end of last season, has helped keep some of the freshness in his legs.

"I hope it will prolong my career," Giggs said of his decision to quit the Welsh cause.

"At 18 or 19, you think it will go on forever. But obviously it doesn't.

"Retiring from international football was a big decision but already - although it has only been a couple of internationals I have missed - I feel as if I have benefited."

Certainly, after resting during the current break, Giggs will be one of the men Ferguson will look to when United look to extend their six-match winning streak in league combat at Aston Villa on Saturday.

More and more, it is looking as though Ferguson will be the only club boss Giggs will play for in his entire career.

The bond between the two Celts is still as strong as it has ever been. And, while their personalities are vastly different, the fiery Ferguson shares the same insatiable desire as the laid-back Giggs, who was first spotted as a raw teenager and instantly snatched from under the noses of Manchester City.

"Ryan Giggs epitomises the word loyalty," said Ferguson.

"He signed here as a 14-year old school boy and is still with the club 20 years on.

"Apart from his playing ability he has a fantastic demeanour and is a great role model to the younger players.

"I am sure he will be at the club for a long time to come."