Ex-England boss hails Ryan

Former England manager Graham Taylor says there's no question Ryan Giggs deserves his OBE honour.

Writing in The Telegraph, Taylor said the Welshman is one of just a handful of modern-day footballers who "tick every box, on and off the pitch".

"Talent on its own only takes you so far, perhaps not even to first base," said Taylor.

"Applied talent, which requires a deep desire to succeed and a commitment to dedicate yourself to your profession, is the hallmark of a true professional."

Taylor first saw Giggs in action back in 1991 and immediately recognised a number of winning traits.

"His pace when in possession of the ball, coupled with his willingness to take on defenders, did for all football supporters what his colleague, Cristiano Ronaldo, does now – lifts you off your seat with an air of excitement and expectancy."

But it's not just Giggs' skill on the field that Taylor finds so appealing.

"In this age of 24-hours-a-day football news, when have we read anything about Giggs that would question his professional approach to his career? To achieve what Giggs has achieved over so many seasons requires a mental rod of steel, and along with his applied talent he deserves every recognition that comes his way."

Giggs received an OBE for services to football on Tuesday 11 December.