Sir Alex Ferguson admits England's loss was Manchester United's gain over Paul Scholes' contribution.

Ferguson - who wooed his midfield star out of retirement last season - claims the decision to turn his back on England has kept Scholes going at the highest level.

The United chief said: "I can certainly attribute his longevity to finishing with international football after Euro 2004.

"He did that mainly because he wanted to spend more time with his family - he is very much a family man. He's enjoyed his football more I think because of that decision and he's concentrated on giving himself more time with United.

"In the process he's still able to produce incredible quality - retiring from England has definitely helped with that. He has been an incredible player for United."