Farewell, Ginger Prince!

There's so much going on at Manchester United this past week, but I think Paul Scholes deserves his own post. I wrote this back in 2011, when Scholes announced his retirement the first time. Unfortunately, we haven't seen much of Scholes on the pitch lately because he's struggling with a knee injury. On the last home game of the season against Swansea yesterday, Sir Alex Ferguson put Scholesy on the starting line up and gave him a chance to bow out of the game at Old Trafford. It also afforded the fans the opportunity to give one last standing ovation for the midfield maestro. It's been months since he last played a part in United's title winning campaign, and it really is a shame.

Scholes was recently interviewed by former teammate Gary Neville for SkySports. He talked about his knee and how it has hindered him from having the final season he has hoped for. I completely agree with what he said: you can either go out on top (which he would have, in 2011), or go out knowing that you've done everything, physically, for the team (which he has now). I am glad that he was fit enough to play most of the game on Sunday. I will definitely miss his pinpoint passes, his tackles, and his cheeky smile.

I find it heart warming -- so fitting of his character -- to learn that he's "delighted" that his retirement announcement can slip under the radar, with the news of Sir Alex Ferguson retiring and Wayne Rooney requesting a transfer. Hopefully he'll stay on as a coach; David Moyes would be foolish to leave him out of the club. The young players can learn so much from him.

I'm happy that he can end his career with another Premier League medal -- his 11th -- and with a great trophy parade. There is no one else like him. One of the best midfielders out there, who just loves football but not the fame.

Thank you, Scholesy, for everything. For the entertainment, for the amazing goals, for helping us win trophies, and most importantly for making me proud to be your fan. It's been a hell of a career and I wish you the best of luck in your coaching career.

[PS - Rio is a "knobhead"]

Legends