He was never universally liked and was often derided for the quality of his play. There were frequent comments that he only made the England team because he was playing for Manchester United.
But having seen his many years of service in winning Manchester United teams (8 EPL titles and 2 Champions' League titles amongst others), his consistency and determination, and the fact that 5 different managers chose him as the first choice England right back ............ leads me to conclude that his detractors have under valued his contributions. There were the odd mistakes, but those were notable mainly because it showcased how remarkably consistent he was throughout his playing career.
And it was a long and fulfilling careeer - the guy was Man United's first choice right back for some 11-12 years, for goodness sake. That must count for something considering that it spanned the most successful period of the club's history.
But anyway, as Gary Neville rides off into the sunset of retirement, it's time to say "ciao !". As his play proved this season, it was time to go. Even as Gary leaves the playing staff, you can practically hear Sir Alex thinking, "where can I put him in the coaching set up ?"
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