Robson: Giggs Can Play Into His 40s

Ryan Giggs can play well into his forties, according to his former Manchester United team-mate Bryan Robson.

The Welshman turns 39 towards the end of November and many have suggested next season will be his last in the red shirt after getting the chance to represent Great Britain at the Olympics this summer.

However, Robson, who did not retire at Old Trafford himself until the age of 37, accompanied Giggs on a recent trip to Shanghai and is in little doubt the midfielder is still in tremendous shape. With Paul Scholes also extending his playing career by at least another season, many more vintage displays by the veteran pair are expected next term.

"Both are fantastic professionals and it was great to see 'Scholesy' come back and play so well in the second part of the season," Robson told ManUtd.com. "The boss knows how to use them as well as he rests them at the right time and gets them in and they look fresh. Those two will do a great job for the club again next year.

"You definitely have to do things differently in terms of training. The boss maybe gives you a few more days off compared to what you normally get. But it’s up to you as individuals as well. You have to look after yourself that little bit better and prepare yourself that bit better.

"Both of them are dedicated pros who want to win more things so they will go about it the right way. I can see especially Ryan, perhaps Paul depending on whether his joints allow him to do it, but I can see Giggsy playing well past 40 just because of the natural fitness of the lad."

There has been debate around United's midfield options for some time but the club's former 'Captain Marvel' feels the current personnel have the opportunity to press home their claims, even if there may be the need for an addition to the squad.

"I still think we’ve got enough quality in the midfield area," he stressed. "Although people are talking about it, Michael Carrick had a terrific season last year. Unfortunately, because of the illness to Darren Fletcher, we probably could do with somebody to replace Darren at this moment in time. Everyone has got to keep their fingers crossed and maybe he can get over the illness and come back because that would be a major boost for the club. So let’s hope that happens."

Tom Cleverley, who is United's other representative in Stuart Pearce's Olympic squad, will also be looking to prove he is in good form ahead of the new campaign.

"For me, this is a big season for Tom Cleverley," admitted Robson. "He did have a lot of injuries last season but this year has to be the year where he rallies and proves himself to be a Manchester United player. So it is going to be a big year for Tom."