New-Boy Delighted With United Deal

By David Hobbs
June 6 2005

Old Trafford new-boy Edwin van der Sar has spoken for the first team about his switch to Manchester United from Fulham, that was announced yesterday.

The Holland international goalkeeper revealed he penned a two-year deal and has been in talks with United chairman David Gill for just under a fortnight.

Van der Sar also stated he'd like to win trophies as a Red Devil and help them return to winning ways. ''Of course you're happy if you get a chance to join United,'' he said.

''You don't have to think about that for a very long time. I think first contact was about eight-nine days ago and yesterday we sort of concluded it," he added. ''Maybe in the back of my head I had the idea of that possibility but I was fully committed to Fulham until the end and I think that showed.

''Of course the next two years will be great for me. I hope to bring United back to where they belong and that is in the top position.

''I signed a two-year deal, had a few talks with the manager, he explained my role and what he wants from me, so it's clear for me what I need to do and I will perform the best I can.''  

He also added David Gill explained the Malcolm Glazer take-over bid and Sir Alex Ferguson's future and is happy with everything mentioned. ''He explained a lot of things about the club, also the new takeover and position of him and Ferguson and everything seems in place perfectly to get some more success at Old Trafford.

''I'm not thinking of retirement, I wanted to finish my career at Ajax. Maybe at end of this contract it's the end for good for van der Sar but I've got two nice years to look forward to and I'll do my utmost to perform at the level that's required at United.''

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]