Scholes big loss to England, says Best

Manchester United legend George Best believes England have lost their most consistent performer following Paul Scholes’ retirement from international football.

Scholes’ decision to quit has come a huge shock, with the midfielder not 30 until November. It will please United manager Alex Ferguson, however, who knows Scholes will be focused solely on his club form from now on.

Best, who starred for the Red Devils in the 1960s and 1970s, said: “To be honest I think England have lost their best player. Certainly he’s the most consistent and naturally gifted player we’ve had for a long, long time.

“He will leave a void that’s difficult to fill.”

Scholes was criticised for some low-key performances at Euro 2004 and insisted today he had been considering retirement for some time.

Best added on Sky Sports News: “I don’t think we saw the best of any England player in Portugal.

“They’re on the verge – they’re not a great side but they were always going to do well. If they had done better then the situation might have been different, but England don’t look like they’re going to win anything.

“When you speak to people connected with Old Trafford, they think the world of this lad.

“They think of him as the best natural finisher at the club and when you think about the players they’ve got there it speaks volumes for the player.

“It’s a big loss for England and a big gain for Manchester United. Being a Manchester United supporter and being Irish, I’m quite happy!” said Best.