'Unbelievable' Scholes ends United playing career

Paul Scholes has confirmed his retirement after 17 seasons with Manchester United FC, but will remain at Old Trafford in a coaching role.

Scholes, who ended his international career in 2004 after winning 66 England caps, made 676 appearances for Manchester United, his only club in an illustrious career. His cameo in Saturday's UEFA Champions League final defeat by FC Barcelona was his third in the showpiece of Europe's premier club competition. He was part of the side that defeated Chelsea FC in the 2008 decider and also has ten Premier League titles and three FA Cups to his name.

"What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before," said his manager throughout, Sir Alex Ferguson. "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."

Scholes, 36, added: "To have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour. This was not a decision I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. Most of all I would like to thank Sir Alex for being such a great manager. From the day I joined the club his door has always been open and I know this team will go on to win many more trophies under his leadership."