The 35-year-old, who earlier this week announced his intention to extend his international career with Holland until Euro 2008, was an ever-present fixture in the Premiership for United last term following his arrival from Fulham 12 months ago.

The former Ajax and Juventus goalkeeper signed a two-year deal when he arrived at United and no talks have yet taken place over an extension to that contract.

However, Old Trafford manager Sir Alex Ferguson has made it clear that the Dutch keeper's chances of earning a new deal are high if he continues to perform as he did last season.

Ferguson said: "When we signed Edwin last year, the proviso on his future was that, if he does well, keeps his fitness and wants to carry on then we would look at extending his contract. That still applies.

"But there is no doubt that he brought a lot of experience to the team last season and that proved vital for us."

United are still attempting to sign West Bromwich Albion's Polish goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak as cover for the Dutch number one, in Amsterdam for the four-sided tournament involving United, Ajax, FC Porto and Inter Mailan.

But van der Sar admits he is keen to prolong his stay with the Premiership giants.

He said: "There has been some suggestions that my contract runs until 2008, but my deal actually goes up to 2007.

"We have not spoken about it yet, but if I perform as I did last year, then I am hopeful and we will see what happens."

He added: "The reason that I have decided to carry on with Holland is that I am still enjoying my football very much and I feel fit.

"The World Cup was a big disappointment, but after spending two weeks on holiday in Spain and then getting back to training with United, I realised that I am doing what I love the most. That's why I am carrying on."