Giggs thanks boss Fergie

MANCHESTER United midfielder Ryan Giggs paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson after being named Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year.

Giggs (35) had picked up the young player's award twice before and has now been awarded the top accolade by his fellow professionals following his exemplary season, which looks likely to end with his 11th Premier League title.

Ferguson has been credited with nurturing Giggs and the Welshman was quick to thank his boss.

"The manager has been massive in my career from when I first met him when I was 13," Giggs said.

"That's over 20 years and he knows me better than anyone. Our relationship has been brilliant and just gets better.

"I've been so fortunate to have such a great career in so many great teams, it's not even worth thinking about what it would have been like without the manager."

Giggs has only started 12 league games this season but has been a regular in the squad for all competitions, with the award acknowledging the respect he has from opponents.