Giggs to sign new Man. United contract

Ryan Giggs has dismissed reports that he is planning to hang up his boots at the end of the season and confirmed he is in talks to sign a new contract that will keep him at Manchester United for at least another year.

At 35, Giggs is one of the veteran players at Old Trafford and boasts a record 787 appearances for United. His winner against West Ham on Sunday not only helped his team to regain top spot in the Premier League but also extended his record of scoring in every Premier League season so far.

Faced with a direct question on his future, Giggs said:

"No it's not true, I won't be retiring. There is no truth in these stories.

"I'm enjoying football more than ever at the moment. Actually, I'm in talks on a new contract and hopefully I will sign it soon.

"Things could not be better for me. I'm playing with a very talented group of players and the spirit in the dressing room has never been so good. It's my intention that I will carry on playing for this club beyond this season."

Club captain Gary Neville and midfielder Paul Scholes are two other veteran members in the United squad. Like Giggs, they are here for the Manchester United Supporters Club 50th anniversary celebrations.

After several years of first-team football at Old Trafford, the 'old guard' is facing stiff competition to secure a regular place in the starting formation.

"Given the strength-in-depth we have at United, it's very difficult to get into the first team regularly," Scholes said.

"However, we know the manager will give each player his chance. So, it's important to stay fit and ready to make the most of these opportunities."

"If you look at our squad today compared to other years, you'll notice there is a wider pool of players to choose from," Neville added.

"Each time the manager has to name his starting formation, he can rely on two or three different players for every position and for him that is an added bonus.

"Competition for places is always tough. That makes us give more than our 100 per cent to keep places in the team."