Mike Phelan remembers Ryan Giggs' emergence at Manchester United - because the Welshman forced him out of Old Trafford.

'Mr Manchester United' signed a new one-year contract yesterday, which will commit him to an incredible 19th season as a first-team player.

Now 35, Giggs made the first of his 787 appearances for the Red Devils in May 1991, only a year after Phelan helped Sir Alex Ferguson's team win the FA Cup.

While his former team-mate has gone on to enjoy a largely unbroken spell of success at club level, Phelan lasted only three more seasons before leaving for West Brom.

"I was probably the one who left when he came through," said Phelan.

"He was one of the new generation. You could see, even underneath when I was playing in the team, he was on the verge of breaking in.

"It was great to watch him training. Everybody was talking about it. Once he got in there was no stopping him."

Now Sir Alex Ferguson's right-hand man, Phelan has no trouble recalling the buzz that accompanied Giggs' arrival.

It is the same at every club, as anxious players gather to assess the 'next big thing' trying to work out whether their own place is going to be under threat.

While Phelan, a central midfielder, was not in direct competition with the flying Welshman, the answer was definitely yes.

"It was so obvious," he said.

"It all starts with the coaches saying they have some raw talent.

"That filters through to the dressing room, then everybody wants to have a sneaky look. That is the time when you start to panic because you know he is coming through and is going to be there for numerous years.

"It will either push you further forward or he will push you out. That is the natural progression for a football player."

Yet Phelan accepts no-one could have envisaged Giggs would go on to achieve what he has.

However, even with a trophy cabinet bulging to breaking point, Giggs retains an impressive work ethic that still sets the standard for his United team-mates to match.

"If anybody deserves a new contract, it is Ryan," said Phelan.

"He has got his rewards for all the hard work he puts in. He trains exceptionally well and enjoys the game more than he ever did.

"He is Mr Manchester United. He has been there, seen it and done it - and he wants to do more."

After his brilliant winner at West Ham last weekend, Giggs will hope to retain his place for Sunday's FA Cup trip to Derby as United try to keep their season alive on an amazing four fronts.

With a Carling Cup final against Tottenham booked for Wembley on March 1 and the Champions League date against Inter Milan looming before that, United have plenty on their plate, even if most observers feel the title is theirs to lose.

Providing they overcome Fulham on Wednesday, United will have a five-point advantage over Liverpool and find themselves 10 in front of Chelsea.

Yet new Blues boss Guus Hiddink feels the Blues could still overhaul their long-time rivals.

"I would expect him to say that," reflected Phelan.

"It is what you have to do. We are happy to have that challenge, it is what we must overcome."

Wayne Rooney will remain on the sidelines as United give the England striker as much time as possible to recover from the hamstring injury that has kept him out for a month.

But Patrice Evra and Jonny Evans are set to return, while Rio Ferdinand should be available after missing England's midweek defeat in Spain with a stomach upset.

"We are in all competitions and are happy to be there," Phelan added.

"We have a good squad and, when all the players are fit, there is a selection headache every week. But it is important we continue what we are doing."