Edwin Van Der Sar: Sir Alex Ferguson is best

Edwin Van Der Sar believes that Sir Alex Ferguson is the best manager around.

The former Manchester United goalkeeper paid tribute to Ferguson as the Reds boss prepares to celebrate 25 years in charge at Old Trafford on Sunday.

"Mentality-wise, the way he can make you focus on a game and get you to play until the 92nd minute, there is no-one better," said Van Der Sar.

The Dutchman, who played under Ferguson from 2005 to 2011, hailed the influence Ferguson has had on the Manchester club.

"He is the best thing that could have happened to the club 25 years ago," he added.

"I spoke to Ferguson three days ago to congratulate him on everything. It was a really nice conversation and I said it was amazing for him to spend 25 years at a club of that size."

Van Der Sar joined United from Fulham and went on to make 186 appearances for the Red Devils.