It is no secret that Ryan Giggs is getting old. We are roughly the same age, and heaven knows I am feeling the age creep up on me! At the end of last season I called for Ryan to retire (see Giggsy: We Love you, Now Go Away).
Much to my chagrin he began this season with the first team and I would cringe when I saw his name in the starting XI instead of under “Coaches” which is where I felt it should be. His play was fair, but it looked like my call for his retirement was spot on.
Over the last month or two, I am afraid he has proven me wrong. And true to my norm, when I am wrong I say so. So here it is world… I was wrong!
Given the amount of injuries Man Utd have had and Ronaldo’s diminished creativity in the midfield, seeing Giggs stellar play on the left side has been a welcome breath of fresh air and absolutely key in their success. If he can remain healthy and continue to play at his current level, I foresee a lot of silverware this year!
Now, having said that… Giggsy cannot last a full 90 minutes at top productivity. In close games Sir Alex needs to pull him sooner rather than later. I’d say about 60 minutes if he has shown a good work rate through the first hour. He might last longer if he hasn’t been too busy. It would also be great to see Nani get regular work in.
Overall, I am happy for Ryan Giggs. He was much maligned – especially by me – early in the season, but now I’m pinning my hopes on his leadership and rejuvenated game.
