Giggs backed to play on

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Ryan Giggs can go on playing longer than fellow Manchester United veteran Paul Scholes.

Giggs is set to make his 600th Premier League appearance against Wigan on Saturday, while Scholes could make his 700th United appearance and Rio Ferdinand his 400th appearance for the Red Devils.

While Giggs is the elder statesman at 38, Ferguson expects the Welshman to go on longer than 37-year-old Scholes.

"Ryan could probably play for another couple of years," said the United boss.

"Paul is a different physical specimen and has had his injuries."

Ferguson believes the trio's longevity is a great example to the younger players in the dressing room.

"It is a landmark for three key players," he said.

"It is a great example to younger players of what could be achieved if you sacrifice in the game of football.

"These players have had to do that, otherwise they would never have got to this stage."