Paul Scholes
Manchester United's Scholes waves to the crowd with his family after his testimonial match against New York Cosmos at Old Trafford. REUTERS

The New York Cosmos played their first match in over 25 years at Old Trafford on Friday night, as Paul Scholes brought his Manchester United career to a close with a 6-0 victory.

A visibly tearful Scholes paid tribute to a wonderful United career after the game, saying that he left Old Trafford "with a few decent memories".

The midfielder opened the scoring after eight minutes with a trademark drive from 20 yards as United dismantled a Cosmos side containing Gary Neville, Wayne Bridge, Fabio Cannavaro and Patrick Veira.

"I hope I have left the fans with a few decent memories," he said. "I'd like to thank the manager, my team-mates, the coaching staff. I cannot say how grateful I am to them. It has been a great pleasure. They have all been brilliant with me, and so have the fans, right from the start of my career.

"It has been a special night, but I am glad it's over, really. I would say thanks to the fans for being so amazing and that I am just looking forward to being one of them now, and watching this team go on to win more trophies."

New York Manchester United FC