Manchester United defender Gary Neville has decided to call time on his career.
He made 602 appearances for United and also won 85 caps for England.
He is fifth in the all time appearances list for the Red Devils and one of only nine players to have made over 500 appearances for the club.
End
The former-England international told United’s official website: “I have been a Manchester United fan all my life and fulfilled every dream I’ve ever had. 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”
Struggle
Neville has struggled for first team football this season and it was expected that he would retire at the end of the current campaign. He has played second fiddle at times to promising Brazilian youngster Rafael this season.
Great
He might not have played much this season for the Red Devils but he has experienced everything there is to in the game. With Manchester United he has won every trophy he could as a player. He has also played a big part in United’s rise to the top of the football tree.
Solid
Although he was never the most technically gifted players he has been a solid part of the United defence for the best part of 17 years. Until the last few years he was an almost ever present in the United backline.
He was Sir Alex Ferguson’s leader and voice on the pitch as captain. He has a really close relationship with his boss and I’m sure the Scot will miss the full-back.
Qualities
Neville was always a player who enjoyed getting up and down the field. He enjoyed helping out the United attack even if he managed just seven goals in his United career. He did manage to create his fair share of goals for teammates though. His rampaging runs have slightly dried up with age though.
His biggest quality though is a rare one in football these days, loyalty. He has only ever had eyes for playing for his boyhood club and played like a fan with true passion and grit.
Youngsters
Gary Neville was part of a golden generation of youngsters who came through the youth system at United during the 90’s. He came through with brother Phil, David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt into the first team and they were a crucial part of a United team who went on to dominate the Premier League.
He is the first from that group of players to retire. Midfielder Paul Scholes is said to be considering his future and waiting to see how he feels this summer.
Controversial
Love him or hate him Gary Neville has been a character. He is one of those players that opposition fans love to hate. He also courts controversy by winding up opposition fans, especially those of a Liverpool persuasion.
He gets barracked by Liverpool fans and he gives it back with just as much gusty. He loves the banter. That hatred he shows towards Liverpool is because he loves United so much and there is no love lost between the two big North West clubs.
Farewell
United fans must be proud and greatful as Gary Neville is truly one of their own. It’s a shame that Gary Neville couldn’t have made a farewell appearance for United. That would have given the United fans a chance to say goodbye to one of their most loyal players.
However I’m sure he will probably stay at the club in some capacity and it would really surprise me if we have seen the last of Gary Neville in the beautiful game.
Is Gary Neville a Manchester United legend?
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