Ryan Giggs can continue playing for Manchester United for at least another two or three seasons, according to assistant manager Carlos Queiroz.
Saturday’s trip to Liverpool will mark his 700th appearance in a United shirt and his 16th year in the top flight.
Giggs, 33, says he does not know if he can play on beyond the end of his contract in 2008.
But Queiroz said: “We expect his contribution to be another two or three years without any problems.”
“He’s still got lots in the locker now,” said the Birmingham City manager, also talking exclusively to the BBC.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if he goes on and does 20 years at the top because he’s got all the attributes to carry on – and make no mistake, he’ll still have that same hunger in his stomach that epitomises a top player.”
Queiroz said Giggs’s longevity was “a fantastic, outstanding achievement”.
“It is very rare to find a player who is able to complete 16 years in one club playing at the level of Giggsy,” the Portuguese added.
“It is an outstanding, amazing career. To be not only on top of, but one step ahead of the demands and goals Manchester United have is really something fantastic.
“And that tells us something about his personality, the way he is committed to and his passion for the club and the game, his motivation and concentration at training sessions.
“If you lose that desire, that fifth gear in your stomach, you just can’t do it.”
Queiroz added: “After 16 years, Giggs is Manchester United. The way he plays, with so much fantasy, creativity and entertainment – but also outside the pitch as a professional – he is really a role model for the game.