There has been the argument that the award is not an entirely fair reflection a whole season, as the votes are actually taken a good couple of months before the announcement, so this might effect player’s choices at the time. I appreciate that argument. However, I would say, there is also the argument that if the voting was done now, we would remember only the performances of the last month or two, and not from late August onwards. I think the media clout for Giggs during the time of the voting did probably help persuade a few players who were possibly not able to make their own minds up – but still, it would be rather harsh to say is wasn’t well deserved.

There will be many of us who think perhaps Ryan Giggs did deserve the accolade for his services to the game, despite the fact he has perhaps not been the best overall player this season, and I probably fall into that camp.

I do appreciate the argument that there were other more influential players in the Premier League this season. Personally I thought Vidic might get it, as he’s been outstanding for United this season. (despite the blip against Liverpool) However, I cannot argue with the fact Giggs claimed it. He is a model professional and has dedicated 17 years to playing football at the highest level. If he start’s for United against Arsenal (which is probably unlikely) he will be making his 800^th appearance – an incredible achievement.

He is off course a very different player to the whiz-kid that first appeared on the scenes nearly 15 or so years ago. He doesn’t dazzle us with his dribbling skills too often anymore, or his countless runs down the wing and terrorisation of full backs. He has instead had to adapt his role within the team, as the years have slowly caught up on him. However, for Sir Alex, he is still a vital member of any squad he picks. He may not start; but he will always do the job when required. He may have made the team-sheet on only 12 occasions this season, but in each one he has been effective and his appreciation by his fellow team mates is obvious to see.

So despite the hysteria surrounding the nominations, I can think of no one more deserving of the accolade this time round. Perhaps if anything, it has come a bit late in the day for Giggs. The five-minute standing ovation he got on the announcement of the award perhaps goes to show the admiration for him amongst his fellow footballing stars . There is not too many others in the mould of Ryan Giggs, and that is why the award is all the more fitting. Congratulations Giggsy.