Vidic picked up both awards after a season in which his formidable partnership at the back with Rio Ferdinand has played a major part in helping United retain their Barclays Premier League title.

The Serbia defender was delighted at the recognition for his achievements this season.

"It's a great night for me," Vidic told MUTV. "I'm really surprised but I'm enjoying it.

"In my career I have never really had individual awards.

"I am honoured especially when I see the players who I play every day with. It's amazing to get this award. I'm very happy. Thank you.

"I developed here as a player. Thank you to the players and the coaching staff.

"Since I came here three and a half years ago I have progressed every year and I'm proud of that. I enjoy it here. I like being with the players and I'm very happy here."

Team-mate Ryan Giggs has no doubt it was the right choice.

"So many players have had a good season," he said. But it has to be Nemanja for me.

"Consistently throughout the season he's been brilliant."

Cristiano Ronaldo, who won both awards last season, did not end the night empty-handed as he once again received the goal of the season prize for his stunning effort at Porto in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

Seventeen-year-old Federico Macheda, who burst onto the scene with the winner against Aston Villa on his debut, was named academy player of the year and James Chester clinched the reserve team prize.