Fergie wants Irwin to play on - December 13, 2000
Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson wants his board to reward 35-year-old Denis Irwin with a new contract when his current deal runs out this summer.
The former Irish international has been contracted on a year-to-year basis since 1998 - but Fergie reckons that Irwin and fellow Thirty-something Teddy Sheringham can keep going at the highest level.
"I'd like them to stay on at the club for another while," Ferguson said yesterday. "I want them to stay for the experience they can give us."
Irwin's consistency at the back and Sheringham's goals have helped United to the top of the Premiership table and their Champions League group.
And Ferguson said: "Fitness-wise they are both looking in good condition and their performance levels are good. We all know about their ability, but their physical fitness and top-level experience have allowed them to stay on longer than other players.
"Time does catch upon footballers, but they are both doing terrifically. I just wish they were 29 again!"