Great Dane: "Spring Chicken VDS is Problem-Solver"


Praised by Schmeichs

By Chris O'Brien
June 9 2005

MUFC legend Peter Schmeichel feels that Edwin Van Der Sar will be a real hit at Old Trafford, and has the ability to solve the club's inconsistency with goalkeepers. The Great Dane has also squashed claims that United's aquisition is too old, and says he has half a decade left in the Premeirship. New Page 4

Former Manchester United 'keeper Peter Schmeichel, arguably the finest shot stopper in the club's illustrious history, has backed recent acquisition Edwin Van Der Sar to prove a big hit at Old Trafford. The 6ft 5" giant completed his move from Fulham earlier in the week for an undisclosed fee, and is expected to take the number one jersey for the forthcoming campaign.

"He's got everything. He's got almost 100 caps for Holland. They are a great team and have been for a long time so that just shows what he can do. He performs at a certain level every time. That is one of the most valuable things you can have as a goalkeeper. Being a goalkeeper at Old Trafford is special. With Van Der Sar he has the quality to play for United." said the Great Dane, United 'keeper for 8 years.

Many supporters have voiced concerns over Van Der Sar's age at 34. However, Schmeichel seemingly sees the Dutch international as a spring chicken and believes he has plenty of playing time left despite only agreeing to a two-year deal when completing his move to the Red Devils.

"Van Der Sar is only 34 so I think he can play on for another five years, but even if it is only for two years it will still give the manager time to find a long-term replacement. Two years is a long time in football."

The former Juventus and Ajax 'keeper is the latest in a long-line of goalkeepers trying to fill the big boots of Schmeichel after the giant departed Old Trafford. Mark Bosnich, Massimo Taibi, Raimond Van Der Gouw, Paul Rachubka, Andy Goram, Fabien Barthez, Tim Howard, Roy Carroll and Ricardo have all failed to match Schmeichel, so Van Der Sar has plenty of his responsibility on his broad shoulders.

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