Following that quarter Final 2-0 defeat of Arsenal at Old Trafford, Manchester United are now just two wins away from lifting the FA Cup for the first time since 2004. Veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar knows what must be done to make his heroics in that game worthwhile. “An FA Cup winners medal would mean a lot despite what I have already won in my career” he said “it is there on my list but I wouldn’t look back in regret if I don’t win it. In any case, it doesn’t do a lot for me to lose a semi final. Football is about winning trophies. Although we’re at Wembley we are still one match away from the final.”
An FA Cup final victory would not only mean United beating their bitter rivals AGAIN, it will fill the hole remaining in Van der Sar’s medal collection. It would also be a fitting way to mark his last month as a professional footballer. Such were the manner and number of his saves to deny the Gunners at Old Trafford, the Stretford End was bellowing at the final whistle for Sir Alex Ferguson to persuade the former Ajax man to remain with United for another year.
At the age of 40 however van der Sar’s mind is already made up and despite his gratitude and the accolades, he is not going to change his mind. “I don’t hate the thought of retirement” he said “I am looking forward to it. I am at my peak and it will be nice to finish at my peak. Maybe it is a weight off my shoulders. It is nice to get recognition from the fans and I will miss football and the buzz” he continued but then sent out the reminder that “It has been 20 years and I have other good things in my life including a lovely wife and great kids.”
How’s this for a winning medals haul which he’ll be able to show his grandchildren in his latter years.
2 Champions League – Ajax and Manchester United
1 Uefa Cup – Ajax
1 Uefa Super Cup – Ajax
1 Inter Continental Cup – Ajax
1 FIFA World Club Cup – Manchester United
4 Holland League Champions – Ajax
3 Holland FA Cups – Ajax
3 Holland Super Cups – Ajax
3 Prmier League Champions – Manchester United
1 Carling Cup – Manchester United
3 Community Shields – Manchester United
Here’s hoping that van der Sar can complete his collection with that missing FA Cup winners medal – and possibly one or two others, before hanging up his gloves in May.
Was signing VDS from Fulham for £2 million one of Fergies shrewdest transfer deals?
