More to the point...
Farewell Gaz Nev. A servant to Club and coutry...
Gary Neville announces retirement from football with immediate effect
• Manchester United defender quits after 20 years at Old Trafford
• 'It's knowing when that time is and for me that time is now'
Gary Neville Gary Neville has called time on his playing career at the age of 35. Photograph: Martin Rickett/PA Wire/Press Association Images
Gary Neville has announced his retirement from the game with immediate effect.
The 35-year-old Manchester United full-back has not played since the New Year's Day victory at West Brom, when he was fortunate not to be dismissed for a professional foul on Graham Dorrans. It was his 602nd appearance for United. He also won 85 England caps.
"I have been a Manchester United fan all my life and fulfilled every dream I've ever had," he said. "Obviously I am disappointed that my playing days are at an end, however it comes to us all, and it's knowing when that time is and for me that time is now.
"I have played in the most incredible football teams, playing with some of the best players in the world as well as against them and I have been lucky to be a part of the team's achievements and the club's great success.
"There are so many people I want to thank and of course top of that list is Sir Alex Ferguson. He has given me so many opportunities and countless support over the last 20 years, he is truly one of the greatest managers and I have to thank him for that.
"There have also been so many great players that I have had the privilege to train and play along side. The experiences we've shared will be with me for the rest of my life.
"Also all the coaches I have played under from youth level right through to now, who have guided me through my playing days. And finally, the fans, who have always shown me unbelievable support, they know how special they are to me and this club.
"I am looking forward to new experiences and the club will always be a part of my life going forward however the most important thing now is for the club to continue with the success that is synonymous with Manchester United and I will be supporting them all the way, as a fan."
It will be interesting to see what direction Neville's career now takes. He has long been touted as a potential coach at United and was mentioned as a possible successor to the reserve team manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has returned to Norway to take charge at Molde. There is also speculation he could become a television pundit.
"Gary was the best English right-back of his generation," Ferguson said. "He is an example to any young professional; hard-working, loyal and intelligent. As a United fan born and bred, his fantastic career at Old Trafford has cemented his place in the affection of the club's supporters everywhere.
"His impact on the club in general has been huge; his presence in the dressing room and leadership qualities have been an asset to me as a manager. All the young players who have sought his advice on many matters, particularly on contract issues owe him a great debt.
"As a young boy he had the will and determination to succeed as a footballer and that character remained with him throughout his career which is the legacy he leaves every young player at Manchester United."
Neville's career has been blighted by injury over the last few years and it was obvious at the West Brom game, or the visit to Stoke in October when the full-back was equally fortunate to escape a red card, that his time at the top level was almost over.
"Gary has been a great servant to the club and we thank him for his loyalty and his contribution to the tremendous success we have enjoyed in his playing time here," said the chief executive, David Gill.
"I know from my many dealings with him over the years he always had the club's best interests at heart. So whilst this illustrious chapter in his career has finished, his experience, commitment and energy will ensure he will continue to play a part in the life of the club, whether on the coaching or the commercial side."
