Van der Sar hails world double

Tuesday 23 December 2008

(The Press Association) - Edwin van der Sar is delighted to be a world champion again - but he admits Manchester United's victory over LDU Quito does not quite match up to his glory day with Ajax.

With the expectation levels at Old Trafford so great, far more is needed to satisfy United's trophy-hungry fans. When Ajax overcame Brazilian outfit Gremio 13 years ago, when Van der Sar was 25, there was more pleasure, even if, to win it again at this late stage in his career, the Dutchman is understandably jubilant.

"It's a great feeling to win the tournament again, particularly at United," he said. "But the first one was more special because there was more excitement around it."

In truth Gremio were probably stiffer opposition that Quito were on Sunday.

The South American champions only made a game of it once Wayne Rooney had put United ahead and even then Alejandro Manso was Quito's sole threat.

Manso forced Van der Sar into a couple of excellent late saves that ultimately proved pivotal as Rio Ferdinand went on to lift the trophy.

"I didn't have much to do in the first half, so you are hoping that we go on and score a couple of goals," said Van der Sar.

"But it didn't happen and they put a bit of pressure on us after Wayne had scored.

"Thankfully I had a good eye on the shots and I was able to make a couple of relatively easy saves."