Paul Scholes says his badminton trophy means more than Liverpool’s Club World Cup title

Former Manchester United player Paul Scholes has downplayed Liverpool’s success in the Club World Cup, saying a badminton trophy he won at his local club means more.

Liverpool claimed victory in Qatar last weekend to be crowned world champions for the first time in their history, after beating Brazilian side Flamengo 1-0 after extra-time.

Despite adding another piece of silverware to their trophy cabinet, some were dismissive of the side’s achievement in the tournament – including Scholes, who clinched the same title back in 2008 under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Recalling United’s own experience in the Club World Cup more than a decade ago, Scholes couldn’t resist taking a subtle dig at Liverpool for their celebrations in Qatar.

“Well you want to win it once you’re there but I don’t think it was ever something that we were desperate to win,” Scholes told BBC Five Live.

“Even now if someone said to you ‘What trophies did you win over the years?’ I don’t think we’d mention the World Club Championship.

“I really don’t. I’m not joking, I’m serious!

“But you know what, it’s like anything else, it might take more importance over the years.

“It looks like Liverpool have enjoyed it, they’ve celebrated it and probably will mention it and why not – but just when we were playing it wasn’t that serious I don’t think.

“But now you look back I suppose you’re quite happy but it’s not something you set out to do as a player I don’t think.”

When asked which meant more to him – Club World Cup success or winning a trophy at his local badminton club – Scholes responded: “My badminton trophy!”