Giggs earns Ferguson praise

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson sang the praises of Ryan Giggs after his stoppage-time winner against Norwich City on Sunday.

Giggs marked his 900th appearance for the club with a late winner to give the reigning champions a 2-1 victory at Carrow Road.

Fellow veteran Paul Scholes gave Ferguson’s side an early lead but Grant Holt’s equaliser with six minutes left looked to have forced a draw, until Giggs’ late impact.

“For a player to play for one club for 900 games is exceptional and it won’t be done again,” Ferguson said.

“He deserved that goal for his service to the club. He’s had an amazing career.”

The result brought United within two points of table-toppers Manchester City and Giggs believes the fight for the title is well and truly alive.

“We know how important a time it is, City put pressure on us yesterday and we knew we had to win,” Giggs said.

“Right through the squad – for all the time I’ve been here – we’ve always had that ability to not give in and score late goals.”

“To play 900 games for this club, who I’ve grown up supporting, is special – it’s a great day for me. I am sure there will be more twists and turns in the title race and I expect more drama and late goals.”

Norwich boss Paul Lambert was happy with the effort his side put in despite the defeat.

“We gave it everything we had,” Lambert said.

“I couldn’t ask for more. That was a huge performance by us. I thought we were excellent, but Manchester United have done that (scored late), what, (for) 25 years since Sir Alex Ferguson took charge?”

“There’s no way this team should be criticised for anything. We’ve come back strongly.”