Icons Paul Scholes Signed Manchester United Photo: Goal Vs FC Barcelona

Zinedine Zidane calls him the toughest opponent he has ever faced. Xavi says he was best central midfielder of the last 15 to 20 years. Laurent Blanc claims he was the best English player of a generation. And Ronaldinho wishes he could pass like him. These are just a handful of testimonials from some of the game's most talented footballers about one particular Manchester United legend: Paul Scholes. To be universally admired by supporters is not exactly easy but what's tougher is to be universally admired by your fellow professionals. But such was the extraordinary talent Paul Scholes possessed during his playing career – a career in which he won 11 Premier League titles, two UEFA Champions Leagues and the acclaim of almost everyone who ever saw him play. Put simply, Paul Scholes was one of a kind.