Man Utd’s stance on Van der Sar appointment as Ajax chief turns 52

Manchester United hero Edwin van der Sar celebrates his 52nd birthday today. The Ajax chief was one of the best goalkeepers of his generation, starring for the likes of the Dutch giants, the Red Devils, Juventus and Fulham during his glittering career. But as fans reminisce about the shot-stopper as he turns another year older, there’s nothing to recent speculation about him potentially returning to Old Trafford.Manchester United signed Van der Sar back in the summer transfer window of 2005.The Netherlands international had previously impressed for Fulham and was drafted in as an upgrade on Tim Howard, who had struggled for consistency following his move from New York Red Bulls two years before.Van der Sar would go on to become a United legend at Old Trafford, helping the club win four Premier League titles – as well as the Champions League crown in 2008.And, since hanging up his boots in 2011, he’s impressed as CEO of Ajax.Every year, the Eredivisie giants lose their best players for a profit – with their business model one of the very best in the whole of world football.Man Utd transfers: Plans for next three signings are damning on Solskjaer Man Utd are constantly linked with Ajax chief Edwin van der Sar (Image: GETTY) Man Utd signed Edwin van der Sar back in the summer of 2005 (Image: GETTY) Man Utd were successful when they had Edwin van der Sar between the sticks (Image: GETTY)In previous years, United’s structure has come under fire with the club struggling to win trophies in the years since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.But the Red Devils are now convinced they’ve got the right figures in the right positions as they plan for a brighter future.Murtough works above Darren Fletcher, with the former United midfielder operating at the club in the capacity of technical director.Richard Arnold is technically the boss of both, but allows them to focus on footballing matters while he focuses on things from a business perspective instead.Meanwhile, as Van der Sar celebrates his birthday, former team-mate Louis Saha recently expressed a belief he should be appointed at Old Trafford.WIN A FREE ENGLAND SHIRT FOR THE WORLD CUP! Man Utd are fully behind John Murtough despite Edwin van der Sar speculation (Image: GETTY)Van der Sar himself said recently that a return to United has never been close, either.”It’s never been that close,’ he said.”I have a good relationship with the board and I had a fantastic six years in Manchester.’But I’m not finished here yet.”Want the latest football news? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking her