Edwin van der Sar is an all-time Manchester United great – Raimond van der Gouw

Raymond van der Gouw (PROSHOTS)

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EXCLUSIVE
By Jesse Wieten

Former Manchester United shot-stopper Raimond van der Gouw has heaped praise on Edwin van der Sar, comparing him to club legend Peter Schmeichel.

Van der Sar, 40, will hang up his gloves after the match against Barcelona, and Van der Gouw told Goal.com: “It’s absolutely unique that he has the chance to play a Champions League final as his last game.

“Van der Sar and Peter Schmeichel are one class above all other Manchester United goalkeepers. They are both absolutely fantastic.”

The former Vitesse glovesman worked with Sir Alex Ferguson during his spell at United from 1996 until 2002, and made it clear that the Scottish manager is a great motivator.

“Ferguson keeps a close eye on the physical condition of all his players,” he said. “That is the reason why players like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes still play.

“Ferguson knows exactly when to rest them and when to play them. That is not easy, but Ferguson has a huge drive to get the best out of every player. He always knows how to motivate you.”  

Van der Gouw also gave his thoughts on Saturday’s game, and feels his old club will exact revenge for their defeat two years ago.

“I was in Rome when United took on Barcelona in the Champions League final,” he said. “It was a real shame that they lost that game.

“I have a feeling that they will have more luck this time, though. They have my support on Saturday. I played for United for six years and they are very important to me.”