Manchester United have confirmed the first full handful of legends that will turn out in May’s charity match against a team of Liverpool greats.
A selection of icons from England’s most successful for two clubs will go head-to-head on May 21, with the proceeds going to United’s Foundation for its work with young people.
Former Red Devils midfielder and the man described by Sir Alex Ferguson as his “best ever captain” Bryan Robson will manage the United team at Old Trafford.
And he will have a cohort of players that have some history against their north west rivals, including Diego Forlan and Patrice Evra.
Forlan enjoyed his best day in a United shirt when facing Liverpool, with the Uruguayan striker netting a two-minute brace at Anfield in a 2-1 win in 2002.
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“I have said for a long time that I need to return to Old Trafford, but I didn't think it would be as a player!” Forlan said. “It will be an honour to step back out onto the pitch and see all the fans again who have continued to chant my name for all these years.
“It will be a great opportunity for me and for everyone involved, especially to play against our old rivals Liverpool, but also to raise money for the children of Greater Manchester.”
Along with Forlan, former captain Patrice Evra will be back in the red of United, having remained a hugely popular figure in the years since his retirement.
Mikael Silvestre is another ex-United player with some happy memories playing against Liverpool, reserving two of his six Premier League goals for their most bitter rivals.
John O’Shea is another sure to get a massive reception, having spent more than a decade at the club and memorably scored an injury-time winner against the Reds at Anfield in 2007.
Czech Republic Icon Karel Poborsky will also be involved, with former team-mate Andy Cole in the dugout assisting Robson as they look to win a game billed as ‘Legends of the North’.
There’s expected to be a big crowd at Old Trafford with all proceeds going towards Manchester United Foundation’s work with young people across Greater Manchester.
John Shiels MBE, chief executive of Manchester United Foundation, said: “These matches are a fantastic opportunity for fans to see legends of the game back in action, but more importantly, it’s the chance to make a difference to young people in our communities who have really suffered during the pandemic.
"More children than ever are living below the poverty line – in Manchester and Oldham the number of children living in poverty has increased by 53% and 84% respectively from 2016 to 2021 – and this is likely to increase again due to the rise in living and energy costs.
“Many children are also suffering with their mental health, so your support through events like this is vital to help Manchester United Foundation deliver life-changing programmes and really make a difference to their futures.”
For more information and tickets please visit www.manutd.com/legends
