Paul Scholes has confirmed his retirement for a second time. The former England midfielder initially quit in 2011 but was persuaded to return for Manchester United in January last year.

However, the 38-year-old, who is expected to make his first appearance since January in Sunday’s Premier League encounter with Swansea, feels it is time to bow out.

“Yes I am finally hanging up my boots for good,” he said. “Playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United, under the greatest manager of all time, has been an honour.”

Given how much affection the 38-year-old is held in by Alex Ferguson, it is fitting both men are bowing out at the same time.

Regarded by team-mates and opponents alike as one of the finest players of his generation, Scholes will be making his 498th Premier League appearance for United tomorrow, meaning he will fall just short of the magical 500.

In total, he has made 716 appearances for the Red Devils and scored the last of his 155 goals against FA Cup winners Wigan last September.

“Paul is a truly unbelievable player,” said Ferguson. “He has always been fully committed to this club and it has been a real privilege to work with him for so many years.

“Paul will play at Old Trafford on Sunday against Swansea and will collect an unbelievable but well-deserved 11th Premier League medal.”

Scholes began coaching the younger players at United after his initial retirement, although it was not felt he found the situation entirely to his liking.

Some kind of role will be found for him though, even if David Moyes’s impending arrival as Ferguson’s replacement complicates matters slightly.

Not that Scholes believes the seismic events of this week will have any effect on United’s trophy gathering capabilities.

"The team has the right balance and will continue to thrive under the leadership of David Moyes, " he said.