John O'Shea is determined to look forward rather than back after celebrating 10 years in the Manchester United first team.

There have been periods since his debut against Aston Villa in 1999 when he looked destined to leave Old Trafford, but approaching Saturday's Barclays Premier League encounter with Bolton, the Waterford-born defender has amassed 352 appearances for the Red Devils to more than justify his decision to stay.

"I don't want to look back on my Manchester United career," he said. "Fingers crossed there is lots more to come."

He added: "I knew if I was going to leave United I would have a great grounding. The education was terrific, not only in terms of football, but maturing as a person.

"But when you look back, I guess everything has worked out okay so far. Long may it continue."

Official confirmation of O'Shea's longevity came when Sir Alex Ferguson handed the 28-year-old the captain's armband for the opening game of this season against Birmingham.

"It worries me," he joked. "I used to think I was quite young. Obviously you know the years are ticking by because of the age of the lads coming into the squad and the amount of games you have played.

"I have been fortunate enough to be captain as well. You know you are maturing and getting that bit older."