Smith says Scholes’ decision to quit England is good news for United

ENGLAND hopeful Alan Smith claims Paul Scholes’ decision to quit the international scene can only be good news for Manchester United.

Scholes announced his retirement on Tuesday, delivering a blow to England’s 2006 World Cup qualification hopes.

At 29, the Red Devils midfielder had plenty still to offer the national side but, after seven years of travelling around the world on England duty, the quiet man of Old Trafford has decided to devote any spare time to his wife and young family.