Barca defeat leaves its scars

14 June 2011 08:00

Paul Scholes has claimed if decisions on retirement had been based solely on Manchester United's Champions League final performance against Barcelona he would not be alone in calling it a day.

Scholes had already made his mind up to end his stellar career before that chastening night at Wembley last month when United were on the wrong end of a brilliant performance from one of the best club sides of all time.

However, rather than merely accept his fate, Scholes knows Ferguson's thirst for honours will ensure United give everything in the challenge to catch the Catalans. He chuckled: "If it was just based on that one game, I think 15 of us would have retired."

He added: "It actually just makes you think that is the level you need to get to.

"It is certainly not pointless trying to get there.

"The challenge for Manchester United will always be to be the best in Europe.

"You don't settle for second best at this club."

Ferguson has already made a start by securing the services of defender Phil Jones on a five-year contract.

Having matched Blackburn's £16.5million buyout clause last week, United were forced to wait a few days before Rovers' owners realised holding out for extra cash from elsewhere was futile.

"Much as we would love him to stay on with us - and we made all efforts to convince him to stay - Phil has to finally follow his heart," said a statement on behalf of the Rovers' owners, directors and manager, released on www.rovers.co.uk.

Source: PA