As soon as Peter Schmeichel left Manchester United, the club spent the next six years trying desperately to replace him. They bought in the likes of Mark Bosnich, Roy Carroll and Tim Howard, but they were never close to reaching the big Dane's level. In 2005, Sir Alex Ferguson decided to spend £2m on 34-year-old Edwin van der Sar. The Dutchman had been world-class for many years during his time at Juventus, but he was now at Fulham and presumably past his best. Those who doubted him were proved completely wrong, however, as Van der Sar became a hugely consistent 'keeper for United, and remained among the world's best until his late 30s. The former Holland international won four Premier League titles during his six seasons at Old Trafford, and he was the hero in the 2008 Champions League Final against Chelsea. He saved Nicolas Anelka's decisive penalty in the shootout, earning himself legendary status in the process. A superb shot-stopper and a calming influence, Van der Sar was almost as good as Schmeichel in the end.
