Sir Alex Ferguson gives touching tribute to ‘wonderful’ Manchester United icon Sir Bobby Charlton
Sir Alex gave a brilliant tribute to Sir Bobby following the memorial service of the late Man Utd hero, who passed away last month.
Sir Alex Ferguson has attributed Sir Bobby Charlton as the reason why he came to Manchester United, describing the late legend as a “wonderful, humble man”.
The former Reds boss was one of a number of high-profile football figures to attend Sir Bobby’s memorial service held at Manchester Cathedral on Monday, with around 1,000 guests invited.
Former player and boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, ex-Manchester United chief executive David Gill and current United players Tom Heaton, Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were all in attendance. Heroes of former years including Roy Keane, Peter Schmeichel and Paul Scholes were also present as were Prince William, UEFA chief Aleksandr Cerefin and England manager Gareth Southgate.
READ MORE: 'We loved you Bobby' - Football greats and royalty say farewell to Sir Bobby
READ MORE: 'I burst into tears when I heard about Sir Bobby Charlton's passing'
During the procession of Sir Bobby’s coffin, the hearse passed by Old Trafford as thousands lined the streets to pay their respects to the 1966 World Cup winner, who died aged 86 last month.
Among those to speak at the service was Gill, Manchester United Foundation CEO John Shiels and grandson William Balderston. Sir Bobby’s wife, Lady Norma, followed behind the coffin when it was carried out of the cathedral.
After the service, Sir Alex spoke to reporters about his emotions and gave a touching tribute to Sir Bobby himself. “It was a very sombre occasion, obviously,” he said, as per the BBC.
“The speakers did fantastic, particularly his grandson was magnificent. It’s not easy to get up and speak, particularly with such a person as his grandfather. Bobby Charlton was a wonderful, humble man. And I’m at Manchester United because of Bobby Charlton, without a doubt.”
Sir Alex was making an appearance a month after the passing of his wife, Lady Cathy Ferguson.
Many supporters of United and other clubs have given their thoughts and emotions about Sir Bobby’s life, which you can read all about here.