In his 21 years at Old Trafford wearing a United shirt, Ryan Giggs has probably seen it all.
The midfielder has won almost everything the game has to offer at club level, and in regards to Manchester United will have seen the club change immensely.
From changes of ownership, to changes in personnel to changes of location (The Cliff to Carrington) one thing remains the same; the club’s emphasis on developing young talent.
Emerging as highly touted prospect himself, Giggs will have seen a number of talented young players come and go from United. Currently two young academy graduates, Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley, are shining for both club and country and Giggs believes they will continue to impress, and showcase why exactly Sir Alex has shown faith in their abilities.
Speaking in The Telegraph, Giggs said of the duo:
“Because Daniel is so big and had growing spurts throughout 18, 19, and with that comes a few injuries, he never really got a run in the team.
“Now over the past 18 months he’s had a run in the team. He’s a man now, strength-wise, power-wise. He’s always had the talent. Now he’s got the physique, the experience of playing with the likes of Wayne and Dimitar Berbatov, learning from them and other players, he’s got stronger and stronger.
“Tom has had to wait his turn because of the quality we’ve had in the team.
“Some players like Wayne burst on to the scene at 16. Others develop a bit later. Becks developed a little bit later than Butty, Scholesy and Nev. You’re probably getting that with Tom. He’s had a couple of years getting loaned out. He’s got rid of all the injury niggles. Now you’re seeing his full potential.
“I had first-hand experience at the Olympics, not only in the games but in training, of his enthusiasm. He’s the sort of lad who wants to get better, wants to learn and wants to become a top player.
“When you have that attitude and with the talent he’s got, I’m pleased how well he’s doing for United and England.”
