Ferguson lauds veteran van der Sar

Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed veteran Manchester United star Edwin van der Sar as the best goalkeeper in the Premier League.

Van der Sar has endured a difficult season with the champions, first breaking two fingers in a pre-season game against Bayern Munich that ruled him out for two months.

The 39-year-old then collided with Everton’s Tim Cahill in November, which sidelined him for over a month and then when he was close to a return his wife suffered a stroke and van der Sar returned to Holland on compassionate leave.

The former Ajax keeper finally returned to action earlier this month against Burnley and since then van der Sar has not conceded a Premier League goal.

He was also in goal for United’s Carling Cup semi-final games and helped the holders progress to the final – defeating Manchester City 4-3 on aggregate.

His displays, since his return, have been fautless – a fact acknowledged by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

“Edwin makes a big difference. I know there are a few young keepers out there doing very well but Edwin is the best in the league just now,” said Ferguson.

“It is not just his saves, it is his composure and use of the ball. It is good to have him back.”

The Dutchman’s current deal expires at the end of the season and Fergie will be hoping to persuade van der Sar to extend his contract and there can be no doubt his performances will boost Manchester United’s Premier League chances.

United do have a couple of able deputies in Ben Foster and Tomasz Kuszczak, but if van der Sar does decide to hang up his gloves it will leave a huge void at Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, the odds for the Grand National have really started to hot up and could be worth keeping an eye on.