Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar claims the thought of retirement is still far from his mind.

The veteran Dutchman will turn 40 in October but still has no intention of winding down his lengthy career.

The former Netherlands international joined United from Fulham in 2005 and believes the move to Old Trafford gave him a fresh lease of life.

Speaking about retirement, van der Sar explained: "I don't worry about when that day arrives. I am now exceeding my own expectations so it doesn't bother me.

"When I was younger I thought maybe I would finish in my mid-30s. But that is a normal time to be thinking about it when you are younger and for players at this level.

"That would have been the obvious time to finish, but I only came to United late in my career and maybe that is why I am still enjoying it.

"Coming to Old Trafford probably gave me a new lease of life."

Meanwhile, van der Sar claims he will continue to play at the top level for United as long as the club continues to show faith in him.

"The club have to be happy," he added. "If they are not happy with the quality you are producing then there is no need to keep on going.

"I broke two fingers in pre-season last year and then got another knee injury later on, but every time I was fit I was picked again so that was a good sign for me.

"It proved he still had confidence in me and my qualities and ability.

"It is always nice when you work hard to get back and then the first opportunity to put you back in the team he does it. It is important to know he has that faith."