Scholes ruled out for season

Paul Scholes has been ruled out for the rest of the season with his eye problem.

Paul Scholes has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with his eye problem.

After initial tests, a second opinion has concluded that the Manchester United midfielder must rest for the next three months or more.

Scholes has been complaining of blurred vision since the match at Birmingham City at the back end of 2005.

The former England international had started to show signs of returning to form and his prolonged absence is a blow to Sir Alex Ferguson, who already has major problems with his midfield.

The 31-year-old has scored two goals in 19 games this term for The Red Devils.

"Paul Scholes has a medical condition affecting the vision in his right eye," said United's official statement on the subject.

"This has been confirmed by a number of specialists who have all agreed that he needs to rest for a period of three months.

"Obviously, it is a disappointment for Paul and Manchester United that he will miss the rest of the season.

"We look forward to having him back for pre-season training."

John O'Shea and Ryan Giggs started in the centre of the park against Liverpool but United have appeared to rule out moving for a midfielder this month, despite splashing out on two defenders.

The quandary is whether to move for a short-term option to cover the loss of Scholes before landing one of their top big-name targets in the summer, when they become available.