Scholes itching to get started

Paul Scholes says he will be itching to get the season under way by the time Manchester United travel to Everton on August 20.

The Red Devils must wait until Sky Sports' opening Monday night football fixture to get their campaign up and running and the veteran midfield told MUTV: "Everton away is a big game.

"And it's one TV will want to televise live. It's just the way it is. It's a bit frustrating as you want to get going as fast as you can with a Saturday game and get some points under your belt.

"But we'll have to wait until Monday night and hopefully we can win the game."

Scholes admitted it was hard work getting fitness levels up to scratch at the age of 37 but felt the pre-season games in South Africa, China, Norway, Sweden and Germany would prove hugely beneficial.

"We've only been doing two or three days so we're still a way off being ready for a game," he added. "Hopefully, in the next 10 days, we'll be ready and raring to go.

"It is difficult. Ask any footballer: it's the most difficult part of the season where you're mainly running with a little bit of football here and there. It's vital and we all know what we need coming up to a new season.

"I wouldn't say I look forward to it but I know it's something we've got to do and, in two or three weeks, we'll feel the benefit from it."