Van der Sar has eyes on the prize

Edwin van der Sar played a major role in booking Manchester United an FA Cup semi–final derby day meeting with neighbours City next month — but the veteran Dutchman knows it will mean nothing unless he is lifting the trophy on May 14.

It is seven years since United enjoyed the last of their record 11 triumphs in the competition. They have not been victorious at Wembley since their 1999 treble–winning campaign.

Following Saturday's 2–0 win over Arsenal at Old Trafford, United are now just two wins away from rectifying that statistic, which Van der Sar knows they must do to make his weekend heroics worthwhile.

"An FA Cup winners medal would mean a lot, despite what I have already won in my career," he said.

An FA Cup final victory would not only mean United had beaten City. It would also be a fitting way to mark his last month as a professional footballer.

Such were the manner and number of his saves to deny the Gunners at Old Trafford, the Stretford End was bellowing at the final whistle for Sir Alex Ferguson to persuade the former Ajax man to remain with United for a further 12 months.

But at 40, Van der Sar's mind is made up.

"I don't hate the thought of retirement," he said. "I am looking forward to it.

"I am at my peak and it will be nice to finish at my peak.”