We're not going to lie. We here at The18.com are partial to any player who sports our digits on his or her back. (Note to Harry Kane: We liked your old number better.) So, it's only fitting that today we celebrate another #18 – Paul Scholes – and what many consider to be the Manchester United legend's finest goal. It came during a match against Aston Villa on this very day in 2006. Legend has it this Paul Scholes wonder volley can stil be heard echoing at Villa Park.
2006, Manchester United Vs. Aston Villa: Paul Scholes Wonder Volley
This goal was voted the BBC's Goal of the Month in December 2006 (obviously) and, for our money, is the finest Paul Scholes goal ever scored. Not to suggest it isn't a close call. Other honorable mentions include these gems.
2000, Manchester United Vs. Panathinaikos: Scholes Scores Off 32-Pass Sequence
Beckham, to Sheringham, to Scholes and into the goal. Doesn't get much better than this.
2008, Manchester United Vs. Barcelona: Scholes Books United A Ticket To The Champions League Final
What an amazing touch, look and shot on target against world-beaters FC Barcelona. This goal is a very close contender with the Aston Villa volley for best of all time from Scholes.
Related: "The Class Of '92" Is The Movie You Need To See
No matter which of these goals you think takes first prize, it's sure that Paul Scholes will go down in history as one of the best ever to wear the "18." We hope that, wherever he is this Christmas, he's sitting back, sipping a cocktail, and watching footage of his 2006 Christmas miracle.
On this day 2006, Paul Scholes scored astonishing volley goal against Aston Villa #ggmu ... http://t.co/gCathQhqrw pic.twitter.com/kzgsAGKecg
— ManUtdGram (@ManUtdGram) December 23, 2013