The most influential figure in the Manchester United squad?

As Ryan Giggs headed into his 21st Premier League season, the 38-year-old is still going strong and has no intention of hanging up his boots anytime soon.

Giggs achieved his 600^th Premier League appearance against Wigan Athletic last Saturday, and proved to the footballing world that he is far from finished. When subbed in the 71^st minute alongside Paul Scholes, who was making his 700^th Manchester United appearance, the stadium rose to their feet to applause the Premier League’s longest-standing footballer as if it was his last game.

Regardless of a fleet of talent gracing the Manchester United bench, including the likes of hot prospect Tom Cleverley and new signing Shinji Kagawa, Ryan Giggs proved on Saturday that he should still be regarded as one of the games’ best midfielders.

Undoubtedly set to take a grand place in Manchester United’s coveted hall of fame when the time comes for the veteran to retire, Ryan Giggs still has success on his mind, and will hope to clinch his 13^th Premier League winners’ medal this season after signing for the club as a trainee in 1990.

As well as hoping to help Manchester United to the title, after sorely missing out to Manchester City in the hottest title race yet last season, Giggs will be looking to add another title to his expanding trophy cabinet.

If he can score this season, it will also be the 21^st consecutive season he has managed the feat, and it’s easy to see why Giggs was last year voted the greatest ever Manchester United player by their fans.

The Welsh midfielder has also captained both the Wales nation side and Team GB during the 2012 Olympics and though failing to score on the international stage, he has also amounted 64 caps for Wales.

One of the games’ greatest players, Giggs is a shining example to young footballers. His grace, agility and awareness on the pitch makes him a lethal force regardless of his age, and his presence on the training ground will give Man United’s youngsters the experience and education no others can get.

With a league-topping 278 assists and not a single red card to his name, who can argue with him.

James Hartnett

@JamesHartnett_more stories from James Hartnett

A recent journalism graduate, James is a firm believer in providing unique perspectives on sports news. An experienced sports blogger, freelancer and sub-editor, he specialises in football news and in-depth analysis. A lifelong Spurs fan, he can’t wait for their potential to be unlocked next season.