Ryan Giggs is taking the common sense approach to prolonging his career.

The Manchester United veteran signed a one-year contract extension last week that will keep him at Old Trafford until he is nearly 37.

He celebrated by producing another brilliant performance in Sunday's FA Cup win at Derby as United maintained their unlikely bid for a quintuple.

Little wonder Red Devils assistant boss Mike Phelan is among a growing body of experts who feel Giggs is playing better than at any other stage of his illustrious career.

The former Wales captain does not want to enter that debate. However, with 788 appearances and a barrow load of trophies and now deployed in central positions rather than on the wing, he confirms there is no special secret to his longevity.

"It is all about common sense," he said.

"I have to look after myself and get enough rest. I also have to make sure my attitude and preparation for games is right.

"For many years now, I have said you look to get better and improve your game.

"I have always tried to do that and adapt to different situations. I have played midfield and up front when I was younger. None of it is alien to me because I have done it before."

Giggs had a hand in all four United goals on Sunday, plus the one Cristiano Ronaldo had controversially disallowed.

And, although he is likely to be rested for Wednesday night's Premier League encounter with Fulham, he seems sure to have a major part to play in United's quest for silverware.

"I am certainly enjoying my football more than ever," he said.

"It is for other people to judge whether I am playing as well as I have ever done.

"But I am playing quite regularly and the team are playing well, which is what we want."

With Wayne Rooney set for a place on the bench at best - Ferguson is tempted to leave the England striker out until Saturday's clash with Blackburn - Carlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov are set to return to a more familiar starting line-up on Wednesday.

Edwin van der Sar will look to extend his incredible clean sheet streak to 14 games against his former club, which would put United well on the way towards opening a five-point gap over second-placed Liverpool.