Imagine showing up on a Saturday afternoon to play for your semi-professional team and seeing Paul Scholes putting on his boots for the opposition. At first, you might think, “Wait a minute, is that Pau? No, it can’t be!”
When Scholes, then 43, stepped out of retirement to assist his son’s team in September 2018, the Stockport Georgians players experienced this. The Manchester United icon was persuaded to wear their maroon strip for a single game by Royton Town, who were playing in the eleventh division of English football.
Due to a lack of players, they informed their opponents that a 43-year-old father would be joining them to assist. The unidentified father in question was one of the best midfielders in English football history, but Stockport Georgians were unaware of this.
Footage of the Match Surfaced Online
Fans couldn’t believe what they were seeing
Scholes made his first competitive appearance on a football field in five years since retiring in 2013 with the Royton Town game. Additionally, it was officially noted as his 500th professional appearance. You can view a few videos of the former midfield player in action that were shared on social media at the time below.
Scholesy was ready to jump into a 50/50 tackle even at 43 in a semi-pro game. You enjoy seeing it. The former England international’s participation, meanwhile, was insufficient to save Royton from losing 1-0. If you were on the Stockport Georgians team that afternoon, you would undoubtedly say that you took advantage of every chance to defeat a team that had one of the best midfielders in Premier League history. Mark Howard, the manager of Royton, was full of admiration for Scholes despite the loss.
Royton’s Manager was Thrilled With Scholes
He was grateful for Scholes’ help
Howard was pleased with Scholes’ performance even though they lost the game 1-0. He gave him credit for “raising the level of those around him by 10-15 per cent,” including his own son, Arron. After the game, the manager discussed the reason the Englishman had offered to play with BBC Sport.
Eight or nine of our senior players were absent, and Paul, whose son Arron plays for us, indicated he would be pleased to assist if we ever needed it. The league benefits greatly from it. In front of him, opponents don’t want to appear foolish.
Scholes’ efforts and assistance during the game were appreciated by more than just the gaffer. Gary Leeming, the chairman of Royton, also gave the legendary player appreciation after his appearance.
The Look of Scholes Increased Attendance
He had previously trained with the team.
xz
