Paul Scholes tribute

“UNDOUBTEDLY the greatest midfielder of his generation.”

These are the words of French superstar Zinedine Zidane.

Who was he talking about? Manchester United player Paul Scholes, of course.

It is fitting that now, following the announcement of his retirement, we can take a look back to see just what motivated Zidane to make such a statement.

He has never been a ‘star’ like Ronaldo or Beckham, but he has been superbly effective and unlike so many English players he could, with his range of passing, have fitted in any of the very best global teams whether in a Brazilian national side or in the present Barcelona team.

A part of the famed 'Class of '92' which won the FA Youth Cup, 'The Ginger Prince' was perhaps more appreciated by his peers than by fans - although maybe that will change now he's retired.

Scholes was first seen scoring twice in a league cup tie against Port Vale, a game famed due to the criticism levelled at Sir Alex Ferguson over his team selection. But his big break came in the 1995-1996 season when, with Mark Hughes gone and Eric Cantona suspended, Scholes stepped into the United first team; initially as a forward, scoring 14 goals, as United proved that, despite claims to the contrary, you could win things with kids.

He eventually moved back into midfield alongside Roy Keane where his vision and late runs into the box proved an essential cog in the United machine. He was not flustered under pressure, no matter how tight the marking, rarely gave the ball away and, David Beckham aside, was the side's most reliable supply line, as well as being able to chip with double figures for goals.

I'm sure everyone who saw him play has their own favourite Paul Scholes’ moment. Mine took place in 2000 at Bradford. Beckham surprised everyone by sending the ball high to the edge of the penalty area. Waiting there was Scholes to volley it ferociously into the net and score one of the most memorable goals in Premier League history.

But Scholes could also score against the big boys. In 2008, 50 years since the Munich Disaster, United were looking to honour the anniversary by bringing back the European Cup once more. After a goalless semi-final draw away at Barcelona the stage was set for a nervous European night at Old Trafford.

Early in the match after seizing on an error Scholes burst forward and, as Barcelona backed off, Scholes, unleashed an unstoppable shot. Old Trafford erupted.

As an indication of just how accurate a Scholes’ pass was a story has become legend. Sir Alex was once asked who the biggest jokers in the side were. He replied with the name of Paul Scholes. As the questioner looked at him inquisitively, Ferguson responded by remarking how Scholes would stand around in training pinging balls at any players who had stopped to relieve themselves on the side of the pitch, catching them on the back of the head every time.

Scholes is in the top ten of all time great United players, the top five of their midfielders.

He has never been a ‘star’ like Ronaldo or Beckham, but he has been superbly effective and unlike so many English players he could, with his range of passing, have fitted in any of the very best global teams whether in a Brazilian national side or in the present Barcelona side.

 “He is the one whose level I aspire to. He is the best player in the Premier League” – Cesc Fabregas.

“In the last 15 to 20 years the best central midfielder that I have seen, the most complete, is Scholes.....Scholes is a spectacular player who has everything. If he was Spanish then maybe he would have been valued more.” - Xavi

“Paul Scholes is my favourite player. He epitomises the spirit of Manchester United and everything that is good about football.” - Sir Bobby Charlton

As the news was announced Scholes was on holiday avoiding any major fuss, exactly how he would have wanted it.

It’ll be interesting to find out what he does now. Football was his gift, his talent. Where now for the best of the game we love.