Edwin van der Sar has admitted he no longer worries about when he will have to call time on his career.
United keeper no longer worrying about retirement
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has admitted he no longer worries about when he will have to call time on his career.
Van der Sar turns 40 in October and remains at the top of his game for United, who he joined from Fulham five years ago.
Each passing season has led to suggestions it could be Van der Sar's last, but the Dutchman is now just happy to be playing at such a high level.
"I don't worry about when that day arrives," he said. "I am now exceeding my own expectations so it doesn't bother me.
"When I was younger I thought maybe I would finish in my mid-30s. But that is a normal time to be thinking about it when you are younger and for players at this level.
"That would have been the obvious time to finish, but I only came to United late in my career and maybe that is why I am still enjoying it.
"Coming to Old Trafford probably gave me a new lease of life."
Confidence
Van der Sar also believes that, while he retains the faith of United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, there is no need to contemplate retirement.
"The club have to be happy," he said.
"If they are not happy with the quality you are producing then there is no need to keep on going.
"I broke two fingers in pre-season last year and then got another knee injury later on, but every time I was fit I was picked again so that was a good sign for me.
"It proved he still had confidence in me and my qualities and ability.
"It is always nice when you work hard to get back and then the first opportunity to put you back in the team he does it. It is important to know he has that faith."
