Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has paid tribute to Ryan Giggs as he prepares to play game No900.

The weekend saw his 23rd appearance of the season, which keeps him in the top 10 for the Red Devils in this injury-hit campaign.

"He has been blessed with a tremendous physique," said Ferdinand. "He is not carrying any weight, he's not had any serious injuries and he manages himself really well.

"To have that many appearances at one club is phenomenal. Words can't describe how great that is."

And, as Ferdinand acknowledges, Giggs is still capable of those inspired moments that have pockmarked his career and ensure he remains one of the most influential players at the club.

"There is no reduction in his talent," said the England defender. "He is still one of the better players in training.

"In the games he's one of the best too. He can play on both sides of the pitch and in midfield.

"That tells you he is not getting in because of who he is or what he's done - he's getting in the team on merit."