08 Jan 2012
Paul Scholes has come out of retirement and will help Manchester United through their injury crisis until the end of the season and will wear squad number 22.
Scholes said: "I'm delighted the manager feels I can still make a contribution to the team."
The former England international, who made just 16 Premier League starts for United last season, made what was thought to be his final appearance in United's 3-1 defeat to Barcelonain the Champions League final in May.
He added: "I've been pretty clear since I stopped playing that I miss it.
"I'm looking forward to playing my part in trying to bring more success to this great club."
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson feels Scholes retired too soon.
"It's fantastic that Paul has made this decision," said Ferguson. "It's always sad to see great players end their careers, but especially so when they do it early.
"But he has kept himself in great shape and I always felt that he had another season in him. It's terrific to have him back."
Ferguson has described Scholes as a "player of a lifetime" and admitted that replacing the midfielder would prove impossible.
He revealed he had been in talks with Scholes for several weeks about his return and is sure the midfielder can make an instant impact.
"It's been in the offing for a few weeks," Ferguson told ITV.
"He has been playing really well. He came to see me and said he was missing it too much.
"There were no negatives as far as I'm concerned. The fans will be happy and I am happy.
Of players to attempt over 1,000 passes in the Premier League last season, Paul Scholes had the highest success rate (90.2%).
"Everyone knows he is one of the greatest players in Manchester United's history. He has not lost his real fitness."
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