Giggs names Stam as unsung hero of Man United Treble triumph

Ryan Giggs believes Jaap Stam held the key to Manchester United's iconic Treble victory in 1999.

Under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson United became the first English team in history to win the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in a single top-flight season.

United's incredible squad depth played a key role in the success with a number of iconic moments which make it nearly impossible to credit any one individual talent.

However, Giggs believes Dutch defender Stam played a role similar to Eric Cantona at the club, and that the central defender was final piece in completing the talented squad.

"He (Ferguson) brought in Jaap Stam," Giggs told The Coaches' Voice.

"Because, especially at Old Trafford he still wanted us to attack, he still wanted the full-backs to overlap, he still wanted midfielders getting into the box, but also he had two defenders; Ronnie Johnsen and Jaap Stam.

"They were quick, they were strong, and they could defend one on one.

"I think the manager recognised that Jaap was, just like Eric (Cantona) was, the final piece of jigsaw.

"A lot was spoken about the four forwards we had, but also in my position you had Jesper Blomqvist, Nicky Butt who played in the Champions League final. We had so man players who could play all the games, but also players who could come in and give you that freshness, but you didn't lose the quality."