VdS waves goodbye to the Premiership today

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Edwin van der Sar will make his final Premier League appearance in Manchester United's clash with Blackpool at Old Trafford.

Despite fears that Ferguson was going to select a very weak team for the encounter, which Blackpool need to win to give themselves the best possible chance of survival, the United boss intends to pick at least half a dozen experienced players.

And Van der Sar, who retires after the Champions League final with Barcelona on May 28, is amongst them.

"I have players who need a game," said Ferguson.

"Darren Fletcher, Paul Scholes, Anderson, Dimitar Berbatov, Patrice Evra and Edwin van der Sar will play."

Blackpool are expected to be at full strength for their last-day fight for survival at Old Trafford.

Ian Holloway's side have the toughest possible test at the champions, who have dropped just two points at home all season.

Even a repeat of their last Old Trafford triumph, in 1962, may not be enough to save the Tangerines should other results go against them, although conversely, they could stay up with a narrow defeat.

Match facts

Manchester United have only ever conceded nine goals in 18 final day games.

United have won seven of their last eight final day games but lost in 2007 to a team who were fighting relegation (West Ham United).

Only two away players have scored at Old Trafford on the final day of a Premier League season (Carlos Tevez in 2007 and Les Ferdinand for Spurs in 1999).

Charlie Adam has scored or assisted 12 goals in his last 14 Premier League appearances for the Seasiders.

Blackpool are on the longest current run without defeat in the Premier League, four games.

The Tangerines haven’t won at Old Trafford since January 1962 (1-0).

United have scored more headed goals this season (18) than any other side in the league.

Javier Hernandez has scored more goals as a substitute than any other player this season, five.

Blackpool have scored the most goals from corners in the Premier League this season, 12.

United have scored the most goals from crosses this season, 29.