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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Nathan Ridley

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's touching gesture to allow Man Utd fan to fulfil dying wish

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has issued a touching gesture to a Manchester United fan in order to fulfil their dying wish.

Paul Walker, a dad of four, has been told that he has just five months to live due to a stomach cancer diagnosis.

The 37-year-old had originally visited his GP and complained of heartburn which was steadily becoming more severe.

Paul, from Lisburn, Northern Ireland, has courageously stated that he is determined to make the most of his final months.

As well as making memories with family and friends, the County Antrim man had hoped to be able to visit Old Trafford one last time to see watch his beloved United.

Paul Walker has been told he has just five months to live after being diagnosed with cancer (Twitter@irishmirror)

George Keenan, a friend of Paul's made an appeal upon hearing the news and after donating the tickets, United have promised to give Paul "VIP treatment"

If Covid-19 regulations hopefully allow, Paul will be able to meet the Red Devils manager and his players before they face Newcastle on Saturday, September 11.

In a heartfelt video message Solskjaer invited Paul to the Premier League match, saying it would be an "honour" to have him in attendance.

"Hi Paul, We understand you are going through a difficult time at the moment and on behalf of everyone at Man United, our thoughts are with you," said the United boss.

"Thanks for being a life-long supporter of the club, we really appreciate it. It is our honour to invite you to the Theatre of Dreams, to attend an exclusive VIP matchday experience.

"We are all at the club looking forward to welcoming you to Old Trafford and helping you fulfil one of your life goals, so keep smiling, stay positive and enjoy the game."

Responding to the support, Paul said: "[I'm] over the moon with it, in shock, overwhelmed with the amount of support.

"I can't believe there are so many genuine decent people who would do something like this for me, even though they have never met me," he continued.

"I really cannot describe how thankful I am to everyone."

Friend George said that the family were very thankful for all of the support that they have received so far.

A fundraiser for his children has already raised over £11,000.

"The response that we have had to the appeal has been overwhelming and it has really touched the hearts of Paul and his family.

"He will now be able to give his oldest son a special memory with his dad that he will never forget," added George.

"When I started the appeal to help Paul I never imagined that things would get this far, especially with Man United responding to it and I am so thankful to everyone who has reached out to offer their support to him and his family."

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