Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has lauded record-breaking goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

The Dutchman and his defence chalked up the most minutes without conceding a goal on the weekend, breaking the old record set in 1979.

The Red Devils defence has gone 1,122 minutes eclipsing the 1,104 record set by Reading and Steve Death and Ferguson was full of praise for the 38-year old.

"Edwin brings absolute calm and assurance to the players in front of him," said the United boss.

"Because of that experience over the last 12 games we have changed he back four I don't know how many times [and not conceded] and that says a lot for every player who has come in and done a job.

"You have to give great credit to Edwin but there have been some great performances; Nemanja Vidic is an absolute warrior, he's been unbelievable.

"The important thing is to keep our record of winning and keep our form going."