Paul Scholes describes Salford City’s FA Cup third-round tie against Manchester City as a ‘reward’ in a touching message to supporters ahead of their fairytale clash
Paul Scholes has described Salford City’s third round FA Cup tie against Manchester City as a ‘reward’ in a touching message to supporters ahead of their fairytale clash.
The Ammies travel to the Etihad to take on Pep Guardiola’s side on Saturday evening, 11 years after Scholes and several of his former Manchester United team-mates took control of the club.
Several members of United’s famed ‘Class of 92’, including Gary and Phil Neville, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt and Scholes plus billionaire Peter Lim have been at the helm as the side have achieved four promotions in five seasons.
Scholes hailed the contribution of the League Two side’s fanbase as he looked forward to their clash against the Premier League champions.
‘More than 10 years ago this journey began with 80 fans v Curzon Ashton at home in the 8th tier of English football,’ he wrote on Instagram. ‘And now in the 4th tier about to play in the 3rd round of the FA Cup against the best team over the last few years and selling 5.5K away tickets.
‘It feels like a massive reward for all players, staff and fans who have helped us get to where we are now and can’t wait to see [Salford City] on this stage, regardless of what happens it’s a very proud day for everyone involved (promotion still the priority).’
Paul Scholes has described Salford City’s FA Cup tie against Manchester City as a ‘reward’ for all the hard work put in by players and fans
The former Manchester United midfielder posted a touching message to supporters ahead of the game
The Premier League champions welcome the League Two side to the Etihad in the Cup on Saturday night
On Friday, Guardiola refrained from getting involved in a light-hearted war or words with Neville. The former United defender branded Manchester City ‘difficult to watch’ 11 months ago and said he was ‘bored’ of watching Guardiola’s side.
Despite his jibe, Guardiola was in no mood to settle old scores on a cold afternoon in Manchester on Friday, instead suggesting the job Neville holds as a pundit is one he could never take on himself.
‘I don’t think I’m going to do that,’ said the City boss, who is aiming to win his third FA Cup. ‘I am so cautious or concerned to not make a comment that could hurt my colleagues.
‘I know how difficult our job is. I don’t want to pretend to be sitting there and know what happened. It’s so unpredictable and many things happen.
‘Always when I hurt someone it’s delivery, when I don’t want it. It’s to defend my club.
‘I always had the feeling of how difficult it is. I was a football player before and now a manager. Our business is so complicated. It’s unpredictable, so difficult. I don’t want to hurt my colleagues.
‘Maybe (becoming a pundit) is going to happen in the future, but honestly I don’t think so.’
