Paul Scholes

Paul Scholes is arguably the best midfielder of his generation. As a graduate of the legendary Class of '92, he has managed to win every major trophy British football has to offer. A key component of the Manchester United youth team that unleashed David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs and the Neville brothers upon the unsuspecting Premier League, he helped revolutionise Ferguson's Reds and powered them to domestic an European dominance in the 1990s. The international stage also beckoned Scholes, who scored 14 goals in 65 caps for his country. However, ever devoted to his beloved Reds, the midfielder retired from the national side at just 29 to concentrate on events at Old Trafford at a time when Arsenal and Chelsea began flexing their muscles in the Premier League. Scholes' career had been laced with regret though, as suspension forced the Salford-born midfielder to watch from the stands in 1999 as United enjoyed their most memorable European night for 40 years: victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League final and the last piece of the historic Treble. But, nine years on, still playing for Alex Ferguson, Scholes banished his Champions League demons in the Moscow rain as he helped to secure Manchester United's third Champions League victory. Regarded by his peers as the consummate professional, Scholes has resisted the trappings of many modern footballers, despite his ferocious talent. He has endured the highs and the lows of Manchester United's second coming, and remains one of the games most respected individuals. This revealing biography lifts the lid on the football player and the man, charting the ups and downs of his incredible career.