Paul Scholes admits it was a ‘responsibility’ before Sir Alex Ferguson’s talks revived Man Utd’s career

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has lifted the lid on how Sir Alex Ferguson helped him change positions later in his career.

Scholes played as an attacking-minded midfielder for most of his time at Old Trafford, but then fell into a deeper role.

In an interview with BBC Sport, he explained how he dealt with not playing in such an advanced role, admitting that it was sometimes a “responsibility” in midfield.

“I just accepted it, digging deeper,” Scholes said. “It happened before I retired with England, I was a bit responsible in midfield because all I had in mind was scoring goals.”

“Sometimes, especially in Europe, we were being invaded and I was being destroyed. It must have been a nightmare for Roy Keane at my side.”

“Sir Alex said I want you to sit down. I remember thinking, ‘what’s the point of that’. I think in my first big game I got into his box once, but the coach pulled me out and said it was great, you played the position correctly.

“There was no need for me to get involved as we had such good attackers. I hope you can get the ball to these players who could win your football games.”

Scholes made a total of 718 appearances for the Red Devils, but scored the majority of his goals in the middle of his career, with his best 20 goals in the 2002-2003 season.

When he adapted to a deeper role, he scored much less, only hitting six in his past three seasons, but instead providing a wide range of passes to create opportunities.

Scholes tried his luck in the administration when he took over Oldham Athletic last season, but he lasted only seven games before leaving the club and is now seen more often as an expert.