Manchester United Thrash Six Goals in Paul Scholes Testimonial Match [Video]

English Football giant Manchester United scored six goals against New York Cosmos in a Paul Scholes Testimonial match at Old Trafford on Friday.

Scholes, who was in tears after the game, paid tribute to his club, manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the club’s staff and called time on his career.

The United legend opened the scoring for the Red Devils just after eight minutes with a trademark right footed drive which fizzed its way towards the goal past Cosmos keeper Friedel.

"Over the last 16-17 years, the fans have always been great to me," he told United’s official website.

"I just hope I can give them some memories. I want to say 'thank you' to quite a few people - the manager, coaching staff, everybody involved with the club have been great to me over the years and I can't say how grateful I am for that,” he added.

After Scholes opened the floodgates for the hosts, Wayne Rooney added another from the penalty spot. Youngster Danny Welbeck, along with Anderson, and two goals from Mame Diouf provided the former England international a deserving send-off against a team managed by former United great Eric Cantona.

“To the players - I've been privileged to play with so many good players at this club, it's been a great pleasure. To my family, who mean the world to me and also the people who organized tonight as I know how much hard work has gone into this,” Scholes said. “And, finally, to Eric and his New York Cosmos for being able to put a team together. Also I'd like to thank Nicky Butt and Gary Neville, it was great playing with them over the years.”

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said that players like Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs have offered great service to the club until their mid-30s and have sacrificed other things for their careers.

Paul Scholes, who made his debut for United as a midfielder in the 1994–95 season, has made 676 appearances for the club in all competitions and has managed to find the back of the net 124 times. He went on to play a key part in Manchester United's Treble-winning season, winning 10 Premier League and three FA Cup medals, and a second UEFA Champions League.

Scholes officially announced his retirement on 31 May 2011, and is set to become a club coach from the 2011–12 season onwards. Former France player Zinedine Zidane described Scholes as "undoubtedly the greatest midfielder of his generation."