Ferguson banking on a smooth change as Edwin van der Sar decides to retire
Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping that Manchester United will see out the change in goalkeeping duties at Old Trafford smoothly in the summer after Edwin van der Sar recently revealed that he is set to retire from football altogether
in the summer to spend more time with his family. The 40-year-old goalie has been one of the best goalkeepers of his time and has had a decorated career with the likes of Juventus, Ajax and Manchester United. Van der Sar’s replacement might be bought by Manchester
United in the summer transfer window of 2011 but Ferguson is hopeful that he will select the right man to step into the veteran’s shoes.
When Peter Schmeichel parted ways with the Red Devils after the treble winning season in 1999, Manchester United embarked on a long search for his successor which eventually came in the shape of Edwin van der Sar. From 1999 till
2005, Ferguson signed a total of 10 goalkeepers who failed to live up to the expectations of the Old Trafford faithful.
Remarking on the saga, Ferguson stated, "We hope we are better organized about it this time. There will always be a comparison between Peter and Edwin. In my time those two were the outstanding goalkeepers, not just at our club,
but in their entire careers.”
Speaking about Van der Sar’s career as a whole, the Scotsman stated, “Look at the rich career that Edwin had; four Champions League finals, three World Cups. It was fantastic and Peter, of course, was recognized by everyone at
the time as the best goalkeeper in the world. They are different personalities. But they are great characters and I have been very fortunate to have the two of them."
The Man United manager also praised the Dutchman for his fantastic professionalism and fitness levels despite the fact that he is in his forties. Ferguson also outlined that his first choice goalkeeper has been a fantastic individual
when it comes to being an example to many of the younger players at the club. Manchester United have been linked with several goalkeepers in the past few weeks as Ferguson is set to begin his search for Edwin’s replacement.
United are rumoured to be interested in the French international goalkeeper http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Maarten-Stekelenburg-c22998 as they ponder on
some of the possible candidates to take over from the hugely experienced Edwin van der Sar.
Tags: