Paul Scholes

In recent times, Manchester United have lost Edwin Van der Sar, Gary Neville, Owen Hargreaves and Paul Scholes. While Hargreaves may have played one game too few, there are few doubts about the ability he had and United certainly could have used a dead ball specialist post-Ronaldo. One man, however, who played many-a-game for Manchester United during his long and fruitful career, is Paul Scholes. With the spotting ability of an eagle and a distribution ability to match, Scholes was undoubtedly the King of United’s midfield. The shy Ginger monster could also score from range, with some beautiful volleys etched into the minds of the United faithful, forever. He was also a man of few words, shying away from the spotlight and never having a controversy bother him. And now, with his retirement, Sir Alex will be eager to bring in someone who can atleast be comparable to Scholesy and fire United to a win over Barcelona like Scholes did a few years back. The massive gap left behind can only be described in terms of dimension as ‘Paul Scholes-esque’.

The form of Darron Gibson, the heir apparent to Scholes, has been sketchy and he has been strongly linked with a move to Sunderland, leaving the post wide open. There are quite a few contenders for that post, with Modric and Sneijder being the most visible candidates. And while Samir Nasri may have a different style, there is no doubt that he has the talent to fill the gaping hole in midfield. A less spoken of, yet most similar to Scholes target is Charlie Adam, who is highly rated by Sir Alex and sought after by Liverpool, among other big European clubs. While any one or even two of those names would be definite plus points for the club, one must not forget to look at the other tactics and options available to the Gaffer.

With the highly rated Phil Jones almost having his move confirmed, one can expect him to feature in a few matches. So, with Vidic, Ferdinand &Smalling top of the pecking order, the versatile Phil Jones might just be used as a holding midfielder. Versatile and bursting with energy is how many in the business refer to Jones, and these, combined with his ability to break up the opponents’ play might see him get the nod in United’s midfield.

With all the transfer news, it is easy to forget the available talent at United. Case in point being Tom Cleverly, who, having completed loan spells away from Old Trafford, will be eager to prove himself at the Theatre of Dreams. Having turned out for Wigan in an impressive season, Cleverly has grown in confidence and has ability to match. Talking about Scholes’ retirement, Cleverly said “Paul Scholes’ boots are very big ones to fill, he’s been a winner and a great player. Any team is going to miss a player of that ability.”

“But as always somebody has to step up.”

“I hope I can put my case forward and save the club some money. Wigan have helped me and I feel I am ready to tackle the job at United.”

With the young 21 year old midfielder already on the manager’s plans and with Sir Alex reportedly having told close associates that he is looking to rebuild the squad in three years, Tom Cleverly could well turn out to be the next midfield great to stand up and be noticed at Old Trafford.

Tags: Darron Gibson, English Premier League, EPL, Football, Manchester United, Paul Scholes, Premier League