Giggs’ record will stand for all time, declares Fergie

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson believes Ryan Giggs’s record haul of 900 appearances for the club will never be beaten.

The 38-year-old marked the landmark appearance with a stoppage-time winner as United saw off Norwich 2-1.

Ferguson said: For a player to play for one club for 900 games is exceptional and it won’t be done again.

“He deserved that goal for his service to the club. He’s had an amazing career and he’s an amazing man.”

Giggs made his league debut as a replacement for Denis Irwin in 1991 and has gone on to become the most decorated footballer in English football history.

His latest, and 107th, Premier League goal could yet prove to be one of his most crucial as it prevented Manchester City from opening up a four-point lead at the top of the league.

Giggs expects this year’s championship race to go down to the wire.

“We know how important a time it is, City put pressure on us yesterday and we knew we had to win,” Giggs said.

“Right through the squad — for all the time I’ve been here — we’ve always had that ability to not give in, and score late goals.

“To play 900 games for this club, who I’ve grown up supporting, is special — it’s a great day for me.

“I’m sure there will be more twists and turns in the title race and I expect more drama and late goals.”

Meanwhile Wayne Rooney and Tom Cleverley have been ruled out of England’s friendly against the Netherlands on Wednesday. Ferguson confirmed Rooney will not be available due to a throat infection, while also ruling out young midfielder Cleverley.

“They’ll be out,” he said. “Wayne has still not recovered from his throat infection, so hopefully we’ll get him ready for next Sunday, when we have a big game at White Hart Lane.”