Growing up, there was one player I adored above anyone else in the entire world of football.
A player inundated with such natural technical ability and awareness, that the moment the ball arrives to his feet, not only could he tell you precisely where every player was positioned on the pitch, but he could pick each and every one of them out with ease.
A player with such tenacious mental strength that this week he has appeared in his 700th first-team game for one of Europe’s most successful clubs, ever.
A man with such a colossal intelligence of the football pitch that the greatest players ever to play the game envy him, not to mention his impeccable balance of talent, mobility and his sheer determination that make him an idol to the legends of the sport.
An aura like no other, a genuine love of football, and a supernatural passing capability makes it hard not to aspire to reach his heights, even for players who have their trophy cabinets bursting at the hinges. His 5ft7 frame seeps greatness, more than almost every player to apply their trade at the top of football over the last 20 years.
His retirement in 2011 left the country grieving in a heart-ache more distressing than a relative’s passing, and the demand for his return was too great to refuse. After just 5 months off the field, he took up his natural role in the middle of the pitch and once again showcased his incredible craft.
With 19 trophies in 19 seasons for the same club, he epitomises of everything that is good about football. The most admired professional to play in the Premier League…The ginger prince.
Paul Scholes, take a bow.
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