Last updated 11:39, Wednesday, 14 May 2008

ONLY the hardest of hearts would not have been touched by the fitting finale to Manchester United’s championship triumph.

There couldn’t have been a more appropriate goal-scorer than Ryan Giggs to deliver a 10th title for Sir Alex Ferguson.

On the day he equalled Sir Bobby Charlton's club record of 758 appearances when he came on as sub, Giggs, right, proved there is still some magic in the predictability of the Premiership.

Whatever your feelings on Manchester United, you can’t begrudge Giggs his moment of glory.

It says everything about his professionalism and devotion to his club that he has accepted he will be deprived of a starting role in the Champions League final.

Having started only 13 of Manchester United's 28 matches since the turn of the year, there has been no whining or complaining that he will again be restricted to the subs’ bench despite the adulation and back-slapping he has enjoyed since Sunday’s title-clinching goal.

“It's about the squad,” he said, giving a humble and honest assessment of his chances of playing.

Giggs’ whole attitude and manner sums up the dignity and professionalism that has always underpinned Manchester United’s success.

The former Welsh international has struggled at times this season and was left out of both legs of the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona. But he has always kept a sense of perspective and a refusal to put himself first – qualities which are sadly lacking in so many top players.

Giggs has refused to sulk or threaten to walk away, showing instead respect for his manager, which has endured for nearly 20 years.

He may not win the accolade for player of the season, but when it mattered most, Giggs emerged on Sunday afternoon as a man for all seasons.