Paul Scholes has confirmed that he is ending his playing career.

His retirement, which had been the subject of speculation in recent weeks, was confirmed this morning as Scholes revealed it is “the right time [to] stop playing”.

"I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour,” he told Manchester United’s official website.

“This was not a decision that I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. To have been part of the team that helped the Club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.”

“We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player,” said manager Alex Ferguson, who acquired the midfielder in 1994. “Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new [coaching] role.”

The 36-year-old, who has made 676 appearances since his signing, will begin coaching for the club next season.