Paul Scholes is set to retire (again) this season, after an illustrious career with the Reds our 'Ginger Prince' is hanging up his boots. Often regarded as the finest midfielder of his generation by his peers, amongst which are Zidane to Xavi, and this is certainly reflected by the fans' affection for the quiet man of the dressing room.
I went to Paul Scholes' Testimonial back in 2011, when he decided to retire for the first time and only when his quality is taken away from the team that you realise, all this time you have been witnessing the work of a genius week in week out. The short five yard pass, the spectacular fifty yard pass, the defence splitting ball? Scholes was able to produce them all and my personal favourite story of his passing ability is recalled by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo had been doing tricks and Scholes strolls over and says 'see that tree over there? I'm going to hit it' and hits it first time. Consequently, Ronaldo tried ten times, but didn't hit the tree so Scholes gave him a smile and then went home. Classic Scholes.
I just the unassuming way he goes about his business, never in the lime light just want to play football then go home to his kids. It's this sort of quality that I'm sure Sir Alex loved to get into young players, placing Scholes on the podium to showcase what the consummate professional should be.
Next stage for Scholes is going back to his coaching role at under-21 levels, but before he leaves the lime light for good, let's cherish the memories our Ginger Prince has given us over the last twenty years.
Thanks 'Scholesy'
