Arsene Wenger has hailed Gary Neville as the 'best English right-back' following his decision to retire.
Gunners boss hails retiring United defender
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has hailed Gary Neville as the 'best English right-back' following his decision to retire.
The 35-year-old has announced that he is to walk away from the game with immediate effect, following 19 glittering years with Manchester United.
During his time at Old Trafford, Neville collected eight Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League crown, three FA Cups, two League Cups and 85 England caps.
He steps down as England's most decorated right-back and as one of the most iconic figures in the Premier League era.
Neville has not always endeared himself to those outside of the United camp with his antics, but even his rivals admit the no-nonsense defender deserves a huge amount of respect for what he has achieved.
"Best English right-back in the Premier League? Certainly," said Wenger.
"If you look at his record, he has won absolutely everything and with the number of games he has played, he is without a doubt the best."
Consistency
Wenger has also been quick to praise Neville's work ethic, with his success achieved through graft and determination rather than God-given talent.
The Frenchman added: "I respect what he has done a lot because he was certainly not one of the most talented players in the league. But what he has achieved is consistency.
"His record is down to intelligence and motivation - he is an example to players who are maybe less gifted then the Ryan Giggses or the David Beckhams.
"He still made a fantastic career because he is intelligent and highly motivated. He deserves great credit."
