Sir Bobby Charlton believes Ryan Giggs is "a diamond" after the midfielder signed a new one-year contract with Manchester United.

The deal commits the 35-year-old winger to the Old Trafford club until June next year.

"He's got this unbelievable pace and an enthusiasm for the game," Charlton explained.

"He loves it and he protects it by watching what he eats and drinks."

"He's been a complete diamond in terms of a player here. Alex Ferguson has had no problems whatsoever with Ryan Giggs. He's just a sensational player."

Giggs himself was delighted with the deal to stay at Old Trafford.

"This is an exciting young team and the spirit is great in the dressing room." Giggs told United's official website.

"I want to be a part of that and achieve even more success."

Giggs scored the only goal in Sunday's Barclays Premier League win at West Ham and manager Sir Alex Ferguson also paid tribute to his professionalism.

"Ryan is a true professional of the game," Ferguson said.

"His lifestyle, the way he looks after himself, his desire to always want to win is a credit to him and also an inspiration to any young kid who wants to become a footballer.

"He is like a young boy in the way that he plays and, although he wants to play every game, he understands that by using his experience when it matters is a benefit to him and the team.

"It would be easy for him to be complacent after all he has achieved but he isn't and that speaks volumes of why the club wanted to extend his services and use that experience."