Other Sports
Scholes retires from international play
By The Source
Aug 3, 2004

Manchester, England (Sports Network) - Seven years of representing his country was enough for Paul Scholes.

The Manchester United and now former England international midfielder has decided to quit the Three Lions at just 29 years of age. The decision comes after Scholes recently made his final appearance in Euro 2004 earlier this summer.

"Euro 2004 was fantastic, but afterwards I felt the time was right for myself and my family to make it my last England appearance," he explained.

Scholes, who made his England debut in Old Trafford back in 1997, earned 66 caps during his career. He appeared in two World Cups and two European Championships during his time with the team, helping England build one of its strongest teams in years.

"I started my England career in 1997," Scholes explained. "And have enjoyed seven years of great football, playing in the best competitions, with some of the best players, under the best managers."

The decision comes as a surprise to many, but it is something Scholes had contemplated for quite some time. He was under constant pressure as he failed to score in 29 straight matches for England, a drought that ended when he found the back of the net against Croatia in Euro 2004.

"This is a decision I have not taken lightly," Scholes said. "I have been considering retiring from international football for a while."

Scholes finished his international career with 14 goals.