United - Edwin to Call it a Day!

All the uncertainty about whether Edwin van der Sar will retire or not at the end of the season was answered when the Dutchman confirmed that he will be retiring this May.

At forty years of age it probably comes as no surprise especially when you consider what the Van der Sar household have been through in the last few years.

Edwin openly admitted that he considered quitting when his wife, Annemarie, suffered a brain haemorrhage back in December 2009 but returned to play for Manchester United on the premise that it would be for another year.

Well it`s stretched a little past that but now the news has become public knowledge the words of praise have been coming in thick and fast.

First up though was our keeping coach, Eric Steele, who remarked to the media,

"He has been a fantastic servant."

"I was very lucky, I worked alongside Peter Schmeichel at Villa and I worked with Edwin for two and a half years."

"That penalty save in Moscow has elevated Edwin alongside Peter."

And as for the man himself, he openly admitted,

"The time has come to devote greater attention to my family - although they have never complained. Everyone in the family has indeed always had to focus on me, but we have also had a lot in return."

"My age played no role. I am 40 years old but still feel fit."

"And then the decision cam suddenly. So not ask me how or why, but suddenly you know. That was sufficient."

Wouldn`t it be a fantastic closure on a fantastic career if Edwin could leave in May with another Premier League title medal and possibly another Champions League medal?

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.