Soccer

Scholes yet to decide on future

Soccer: Paul Scholes admits he does not know whether he will carry on playing next year

Wed Jan 26 2011 - 00:00

Soccer:Paul Scholes admits he does not know whether he will carry on playing next year. After Ryan Giggs revealed he plans to continue next season despite reaching his 37th birthday, it was suggested fellow old stager Scholes would continue as well.

Both men played pivotal roles in Manchester United’s sensational comeback win over Blackpool at Bloomfield Road last night. But as Scholes was only just returning from an eight-week absence with a groin injury, the former England star is not willing to get too far ahead of himself.

“I don’t what I’m doing next year,” he told MUTV. “I just want to concentrate on getting back playing for now. I like to have a week or two off at Christmas. This one just stretched out a bit longer, which has not been ideal. Hopefully in the next few weeks I can regain some fitness.”

Scholes certainly eased himself back into the action pretty well last night. Whilst Giggs’ half-time introduction has been viewed as a turning point in the game, it was Scholes who supplied the crucial pass for Dimitar Berbatov’s winning goal. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, it was a moment that even Blackpool boss Ian Holloway appreciated.

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“Paul Scholes is one of my favourite passers of the ball ever,” said Holloway. “When he passes the ball it stays passed. The ball goes exactly where he wants it to. I have always loved him for that. I played against him once or twice and he is an absolute genius.

“He is a role model for anyone who wants to play football. He is a joy to watch. In fact, I wish he was 21, then I could see his career all over again.”

Those who have suffered at Scholes’ feet are doubtless glad the clock cannot be turned back. For now, though, Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea have to try and find a way of stopping the 36-year-old and his team-mates, who have opened up a five-point lead at the top of the table.

“We’ve still got some very difficult away games to come,” said Scholes. “We have to play the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea away from home but we are in a strong position at the minute. We need to keep that going.”