Giggs's name etched deeper into United history

By Pete Oliver

WIGAN (Reuters) - Ryan Giggs etched his name even deeper into the history of Manchester United as he struck the goal which confirmed the Old Trafford club's 10th English Premier League title in the space of 15 years.

His introduction as a second-half substitute at Wigan on Sunday saw the 34-year-old equal United's appearance record of 758 games held by Bobby Charlton who watched the game from the directors box.

And 12 minutes later Giggs, who made his league debut for United in March, 1991, scored the goal which finally killed off the challenge of both Wigan and title rivals Chelsea as United sealed a 2-0 win which allowed them to retain the championship by a two-point margin.

Giggs, who has played a part in all 10 of the titles masterminded by manager Alex Ferguson and has 17 major winners' medals in his collection, has been an outstanding servant for United since coming through the club's youth system.

He has been used sparingly in recent weeks by Ferguson and has managed just four goals this season, but remains an enduring talent which was employed to perfection on a desperately tense afternoon.

LOOKED VULNERABLE

With Chelsea in the lead against Bolton, United's 1-0 advantage, given to them by Cristiano Ronaldo from the penalty spot after 33 minutes, looked vulnerable in the face of a bold effort from Wigan.

But Giggs brought a calmness to United's midfield and then scored the vital second goal when he accepted a pass from Wayne Rooney, took his time and then with his famous left foot rolled the ball into the bottom corner of the net.