Ryan Giggs is 'getting better' with age, suggests Manchester United manager David Moyes

The Welshman, who turns 40 tomorrow, was superb in Manchester United's Champions League win against Bayer Leverkusen

Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney pictured during the 5-0 victory over Bayern Leverkusen (GETTY IMAGES)

David Moyes has claimed Ryan Giggs is getting even better.

The Manchester United veteran celebrates his 40th birthday on Friday, having made a major contribution to his side's amazing 5-0 Champions League hammering of Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday.

Already, there is speculation Moyes will be prepared to extend Giggs' career into yet another season.

It is not a decision that needs to be made just now - and Moyes is happy to revel in the Welshman's continuing genius.

"People mention his age but all you should talk about is his fooball ability," said Moyes.

"He is an unbelievable footballer - and you could say he is getting better.

"His vision and pass for Nani's goal were fantastic.

"He is a wonderful player and I am really fortunate to be working with him.

"He will tell us when he has enough, or when he thinks his time is up. But his performances since I came have been excellent."

Though Wayne Rooney did not get his name on the scoresheet, his name was stamped all over United's biggest European away win since 1964.

Only once have the Red Devils won by a wider margin on their travels in Europe and they were also the first English side to inflict such a heavy defeat on German opposition in their own country since the Champions League was launched in 1992.

Remarkable, Rooney collected the first four assists and was off the pitch when Nani scored United's fifth.

It was his cross that provided Antonio Valencia with a first half tap-in and Rooney who then curled over the free-kick that was headed into his own net by Emir Spahic as United took command before the break.

But the striker was not finished.

His close-range shot midway through the second period was too hot for Bernd Leno to hold, allowing Jonny Evans to finish off and then he lobbed a pass to Chris Smalling.

Little wonder Moyes said prior to the game he had no intention of tempering the 28-year-old's aggressive instincts.

And though the Scot feels Rooney may need a break at some point, it is not going to happen any time soon.

"Wayne does not need a rest just now but I will be watching for any sign he does," said Moyes.

"We need people in form and fit, so I want to keep him as fresh as I can.

"He is one of those players who is probably better playing, but I don't want to find myself losing him for five or six games somewhere in the season."

United have now confirmed their place in the last 16, although they still require a point against Shakhtar Donetsk at Old Trafford in a fortnight to secure top spot and avoid a potentially hazardous knockout round draw.

PA