Giggs: Ronaldo is an inspiration

Ryan Giggs has admitted the dynamic performance of fellow Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo inspired him to greater efforts at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday.

Giggs placed a 14th major medal into his bulging trophy cabinet after the 3-0 FA Cup final romp against Millwall.

Although Ronaldo stole the show with his dazzling array of skills, Giggs also played a significant role late on, getting chopped down by David Livermore for the penalty which Ruud van Nistelrooy rammed home, then dancing into the area to set up the Dutch striker for United’s third goal.

The Welshman freely admits his form has not been particularly good during a generally disappointing second half of the season for the Red Devils. But Ronaldo’s inspired performances in recent weeks seem to have sparked Giggs back into life.

“When Cristiano plays like that, he has an influence on everyone,” said the 30-year-old wide man.

“He does not just excite the crowd, he excites his team-mates as well and on Saturday we got the full array of his talents.”