Ryan Giggs is in line for the 800th appearance of his incredible Manchester United career against Tottenham and manager Sir Alex Ferguson hoping he receives the industry's major accolade 24 hours later.

The 35-year-old former Wales international has never won the prestigious PFA player-of-the-year award, but his manager believes the time is right for that honour as Giggs's contribution shows no sign of diminishing.

Ferguson said: “I hope he wins it. He has played 31 games this season which, given the way you use squads today, is good.

“Hopefully, he is rewarded for his contribution to the game because he thoroughly deserves it.

“In Moscow last season, after the Champions League Final, the players made a presentation
to him which was very emotional and represented how the players feel about the boy.

“He is the most respected player in the club because of what he has achieved and he is an example to everyone.

“When you think of Frederico Macheda and Danny Welbeck who played in the semi-final last week and weren't even born when Ryan made his debut, it's unbelievable.

“Whatever accolades he gets, he deserves them.”
Gary Neville has been ruled out for a fortnight by Ferguson after injuring his foot against Portsmouth at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

It means the 34-year-old United skipper will miss both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.

However, John O'Shea is fit after injuring his ankle in midweek and could be part of a United squad to face Spurs that also includes Wes Brown, who has come through two reserve outings this week without a reaction.