Paul Scholes announces his retirement

I think most of knew this was coming at season's end: Paul Scholes -- quite possibly the footballer with the greatest technical ability ever to don the Manchester United shirt -- has announced that he's retiring (again) at season's end. And in Scholesy fashion, he's done it with minimal fuss and just days after Sir Alex Ferguson has announced his own retirement from managerial duties after 27 years in charge. Here's the statement from the midfield maestro:

"Yes, I am finally hanging up my boots for good! Playing football is all I have ever wanted to do, and so to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United, under the greatest manager of all time, has been an honour. The team has the right balance and will continue to thrive under the leadership of David Moyes."

- Scholes

The first thing I noticed was that exclamation mark in that statement. I have a feeling that's some classic dry humor by Scholesy -- either being ironic by how bold that looks or poking fun at himself for retiring a second time. Hopefully he'll remain at the club in a coaching capacity, just as he did after his first retirement.

Fergie had this to say about his legenadary player:

"Paul is a truly unbelievable player. He has always been fully committed to this club and it has been a real privilege to work with him for so many years. Paul will play at Old Trafford on Sunday against Swansea and will collect an unbelievable but well-deserved 11th Premier League medal."

- Ferguson

Scholes is expected to start in tomorrow's game at Old Trafford. Soak it all in. There likely won't be a dry eye in the house (nor in millions of households and pubs around the world).