Giggs continues to reap rewards with freedom of Salford

giggs was the surprise winner of the sports personality award (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United Ryan Giggs was yesterday awarded the freedom of the city of Salford. Although born in Cardiff, the Wales midfielder was honoured in his adopted home town where he has lived since signing for United as a schoolboy.

The 36-year-old is the most decorated player in English football history, with 11 league titles, four FA Cup wins and two Champions League medals to his name – as well as last year's BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. Councillor John Warmisham said it was "a privilege and a pleasure" to nominate Giggs.

United's Senegalese striker Mame Biram Diouf could make his debut at Birmingham City tomorrow. The 22-year-old, whom manager Sir Alex Ferguson describes as a "very exciting prospect", secured a work permit before Christmas. "He has adapted very well to training and looked very impressive," Ferguson said. "He is quick, very good in the air and is a really good centre-forward."