Manchester United has a big week coming up and started it off with a major signing. The team extended team legend Ryan Giggs to another year.
"I am delighted to have signed a new contract. I am feeling good, enjoying my football more than ever and, most importantly, I feel I am making a contribution to the team," said the 39-year old. "This is an exciting team to be part of, with great team spirit, and we are again pushing for trophies as we head towards the business end of the season."
More importantly, the team will have Robin Van Persie in the lineup for Saturday's match with Norwich City and could have Phil Jones back on the team for Tuesday's pivotal battle with Real Madrid. Van Persie went down last week with a hip injury during the game with the Queens Park Rangers. However, Sir Alex Ferguson asserts that the striker will be ready. "Robin van Persie has trained this week. He's available for tomorrow. His hip was very tender but he's okay now," said Ferguson.
He was not certain of Jones' return but said there was a possibility. "He's got a fight on his hands to be ready for Tuesday but we'll give him every chance. He won't be available for tomorrow [Saturday]," Ferguson said about Jones' return. Jones was instrumental in limiting superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 bout between Manchester and Real Madrid. Jones played physically on the forward and helped keep him on the perimeter for large portions of the game. Jones' absence would leave the team without a major option to shutdown Ronaldo.
Before Madrid, Manchester will face off against Norwich. The team has a 12 point lead on Manchester City with 11 games to play and has essentially wrapped up the league title. Norwich sits in 12th place and is eight points clear of a relegation spot.
Prediction: Manchester wins 3-1.
Start Time: 10 AM EST
TV: ESPN2
Watch Live Stream on ESPN 3 HERE.