01
RYAN GIGGS
1987–2014
The Welsh winger made more appearances in a United shirt than anyone else (963) and stands equal
seventh on the goalscoring list (168) despite playing as a winger, or latterly a midfielder. Unsurprisingly
given his crossing ability, he also holds the record for the most assists in the Premier League. Born in Cardiff
but brought up in Salford, Giggs is very much a Manchester boy and the epitome of a one-club man. He
won 13 league titles, two Champions Leagues, four FA Cups, four League Cups, the Club World Cup, the
Intercontinental Cup and the UEFA Super Cup; he is the most decorated British footballer in history. But set
aside his longevity and his honours and consider his football. It’s not just that Giggs was fast; he was also
balanced and athletic, which allowed him to weave down the left wing beating players for pace or for skill,
to go wide or to cut back in. Frequently dubbed ‘the new George Best’ when he exploded onto the scene as
a 17 year old, Giggs, unlike Best, also had the mental fortitude and temperament to cope with both the
acclaim and the criticism. His acceleration and ability to change direction while running at top speed led
Ferguson to declare that he left defenders with “twisted blood”. A footballing phenomenon.“IT’S nOT JUST THAT GIGGS WAS FAST;
HE WAS ALSO BALAnCED AnD ATHLETIC,
WHICH ALLOWED HIM TO WEAVE DOWn
THE LEFT WInG”
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