Scholes prefers life on the pitch

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes admits his shock return this season came about because he struggled to adjust to life without playing.

The 37-year-old had initially called an end to his playing career in order to take up a coaching role but returned in January to help his side knock rivals Manchester City out of the FA Cup.

And Scholes suggested that carrying on his involvement with the club had made it even harder to take a back seat.

“The coaching was OK but it wasn’t like playing,” he told MUTV.

“I was still coming in every day and seeing players. It was difficult to adjust, I admit that. I really missed the playing side up until Christmas, when I went to see the manager.”

Since the Oldham-born midfielder’s return, the Red Devils have forged a five-point gap at the top of the Premier League.

However, while the United man believes they are in a good position, he insisted the trophy is far from won.

“You would have snatched someone’s hand off for this position a couple of months ago,” he said.

“We have put ourselves in a decent position but there is still a long way to go.”

The Red Devils have the chance to extend their lead over Roberto Mancini’s side on Sunday when they face QPR at Old Trafford.

And Scholes is wary of the threat City pose, but is confident that the title is in United’s own hands.

“We are going up against a very good team in City. They have had a fantastic season and they have a great squad of players that is capable of beating anybody,” he said.

“But with this five-point lead we just have to concentrate on ourselves.”