Scholes hangs up his boots

Paul Scholes has decided it is time for him to hang up his boots and retire from playing football.

Paul was part of the new wave of talent that came through to United's first team during the mid-90's. He scored twice on his debut in the League Cup at Port Vale in the 1994/95 season and since then has enjoyed a long a successful career, making an incredible 676 appearances for the Reds.

Paul will take on a coaching role with United from the start of next season. Fans will also have the opportunity to see Paul play again at Old Trafford in his testimonial match in August.

Sir Alex Ferguson said: "What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before. We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player. Paul has always been fully committed to this club and I am delighted he will be joining the coaching staff from next season. Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new role."

Paul Scholes said: "I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour. This was not a decision that I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. To have been part of the team that helped the club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.

WAYNE ROONEY AMESEMA ATAMKUMBUKA SANA

Wayne Rooney admits he will miss playing alongside Paul Scholes.

The midfielder has decided to hang up his boots and is rightly being lauded as one of the best footballers of his generation.

Rooney will have learned plenty from the 36-year-old and it's encouraging that Scholes is staying at Old Trafford in a coaching capacity to help pass on his experience to the promising midfielders coming through the ranks.

"He’ll be missed greatly," said Rooney. "I just heard the news this morning. We knew he’d make a decision but didn’t think it would be this quick. We’re all sad to see him stop playing. He’s been great for United and England and he’ll be missed by all of us.

"He hasn't started that many games of late and I'm sure that’s come into his head and he's made his decision.

"But he’ll be a big miss for us. He’s the best I’ve played with and against. He’s only small but it’s so difficult to get the ball off him. Every United fan will miss him."