One game short of marking his 1000th senior appearance, Ryan Giggs signed a new one-year contract with Manchester United, which ensures he will play beyond the age of 40 - a remarkable achievement in this day and age.
Giggs' longevity is almost unparalleled in the modern game, and while there were several rumors of the Welsh midfielder finally deciding on calling it a day, the new contract until 2014 has ensured that every single United and English Premier League fan can see one of the greatest British players in history break a few more records.
"I am feeling good, enjoying my football more than ever and, most importantly, I feel I am making a contribution to the team," Giggs said. "This is an exciting team to be part of, with great team spirit, and we are again pushing for trophies as we head towards the business end of the season.
"I am delighted to have signed a new contract. I would like to thank Sir Alex (Ferguson) and the coaching staff and I would also like to thank David Gill who has been a tremendous support over my many years here."
Ferguson, who himself has defied logic by staying at the same club for over 25 years while continuing to bring unprecedented success, was understandably elated by his Giggs' decision to extend his stay to a 23rd year as a senior United player.
"What can I say about Ryan that hasn't already been said? He is a marvellous player and an exceptional human being," Ferguson told the club's official website. "Ryan is an example to us all, the way in which he has, and continues to, look after himself.
"He has fantastic energy for the game and it is wonderful to see. Ryan seems to reach a new milestone every week and to think that he now has 23 unbroken years of league goals behind him is truly amazing in the modern-day game.
"His form this year shows his ability and his enjoyment of the game are as strong as ever and I am absolutely delighted that he has signed a new contract."
