Van der Sar tipped to quit at end of season

Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is likely to retire from football at the end of the season, according to Red Devils goalkeeping coach Eric Steele.

The former Dutch international No.1 turns 40 later this year and has indicated that he plans to call time on his glittering career at the end of the current campaign, Steele told the Manchester Evening News.

“I think Ed has made his mind up and said this is his last year,” Steele was quoted as saying.

“He is a good pro and a sensible and highly intelligent guy who will know when the time is right. I don’t think he will need myself or the manager to tell him that time has come. He will know.

“But if he gets to Christmas and he thinks it is right to go on and the manager (Alex Ferguson) thinks it is right we will make a decision.

“It is down to how he feels and performs. If he doesn’t perform the manager will make the decision. Edwin will as well.”

However Steele revealed Van der Sar — who has won Champions League, Premier League and League Cup medals with United — would like to complete the set with an FA Cup winners medal.

“He hasn’t won it and that is a big target for him,” added Steele.

“When we rotate our goalkeepers I think you will see Mr Van der Sar knocking on the door and asking the boss to play in the FA Cup.”