The 36-year-old lifted the prize ahead of Formula One world champion Jenson Button and world heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis last night.

Bruce, who admitted Giggs had had to fight for air space in his house as South Shields singer Joe McElderry battled to victory in the X-Factor final, was thrilled for the Welshman.

He said: "I was switching over, as probably we all were, because I wasn't in control of the buttons last night.

"The X-Factor was in charge in my house, that's for sure.

"I'm absolutely delighted for him. I played in his debut and I remember when he was a 14-year-old taking the mickey out of Viv Anderson, who was then England's right-back.

"He was fantastic. His debut was something like 20 years ago and he scored against Manchester City.

"What he's done - 11 Premier Leagues, is it? - it's frightening, the way he looks after himself. He's the total package.

"I'm delighted for the lad, it's fantastic - and also I'm delighted for the sand dancer from South Shields."