rousing song among the matchgoing faithful.

The Serbian’s impressive performances continued and earned him a contract extension in 2007. He said of the improved deal: “Playing in this team is a great privilege. I hope I can do my bit to bring the club even more trophies in the years ahead.” True to his word, he did just that in 2008/09, helping the Reds to an 18th league title, the FIFA Club World Cup and the Carling Cup. Much of the success could be attributed to Vidic's fine form, a fact not lost on his team-mates, who voted the towering Serbian defender the Players' Player of the Year at the Reds' end-of-season awards. He

was also the fans' choice, picking up the coveted Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.

Injury and an ever-changing back four prevented Nemanja from bettering those achievements in 2009/10, although he still played a key role in the Reds' charge towards glory both at home and abroad. His influence on other defenders, most notably Jonny Evans, was also significant and will ensure United's back four remains tight for years to come.

He penned a new four-year deal with the club in the summer of 2010 which will keep him at Old Trafford until at least 2014, and he followed that announcement by succeeding