Sir Alex Ferguson is adamant Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is doing the right thing by sticking to his decision to retire.
United boss feels keeper should go out at the pinnacle of his career
Sir Alex Ferguson is adamant Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is doing the right thing by sticking to his decision to retire.
Van der Sar announced earlier this year that he would be calling time on his illustrious career at the end of the season.
The 40-year-old did admit over the weekend that he had questioned his decision, but stressed it was the right time to bow out of professional football.
However, several United team-mates have urged Van der Sar to reconsider his retirement following another sterling season for the Premier League leaders.
Ferguson, though, believes the Dutchman should not abandon his retirement plans as he would not want to see the keeper bow out on a low note.
Absolutely fantastic
"If I was giving advice to Edwin van der Sar, right now, I would say retire," said the United manager.
"He is at the absolute pinnacle of his career but sometimes, when a player gets to that age, age comes onto you very suddenly.
"I wouldn't want to see Edwin van der Sar in that situation. He deserves to go out at the very top and hopefully he does that.
"His career has been absolutely fantastic.
"It is not just what he does on the football field. It is how he has handled himself as a professional and a human being.
"He is absolutely outstanding. In our dressing room at half-time and before games, he is absolutely fantastic.
"My advice to him is that this is the time. There is no reason for him to risk another year and maybe drop below his standard."
