Manchester Utd name first five legends to face Liverpool at Old Trafford

The United Foundation will benefit from all earnings from the Old Trafford clash between a team of Manchester United legends and a group of Liverpool greats.

Legends from both Manchester United and Liverpool will take part in a charity match in May, according to the club's first official confirmation of the roster.

On May 21, a group of England's most accomplished players will face off against two teams, with all earnings benefiting the Manchester United Foundation's work with young people.

Incoming Manchester United manager Bryan Robson is a former Red Devils midfielder who was dubbed by Sir Alex Ferguson as his "best ever captain" by the Scotsman.

Among those in his squad are Diego Forlan and Patrice Evra, both of whom have a history of playing against their north-west rivals.

When Manchester United played Liverpool, Forlan had one of his best days in a United jersey, scoring a two-minute brace in a 2-1 victory at Anfield in 2002, which was his best performance in a United shirt.

"I've long expressed a desire to return to Old Trafford, but I never imagined it would be as a player!" As Forlan stated. "It will be an honor to return to the pitch and witness all of the supporters who have chanted my name for all these years.

"It will be an incredible opportunity for myself and everyone involved, not only to face our old rivals Liverpool, but also to raise money for Greater Manchester's children."
Along with Forlan, former United captain Patrice Evra will return to the club's colours after remaining a tremendously popular figure in the years after his retirement.
Mikael Silvestre is another former Manchester United player who has fond memories of playing against Liverpool, having scored two of his six Premier League goals against United's fiercest rivals.

John O'Shea, who spent more than a decade at the club and famously scored an injury-time winner against the Reds at Anfield in 2007, is another who is certain to receive a warm welcome.

Bryan Robson will coach Man Utd against Liverpool.

Bryan Robson will coach Man Utd against Liverpool.

Karel Poborsky, a Czech Republic legend, will also be involved, with former teammate Andy Cole assisting Robson in the dugout as they look to win a game dubbed 'Legends of the North'.

At Old Trafford, a large crowd is expected, with all proceeds benefiting the Manchester United Foundation's work with young people across Greater Manchester.

"These matches provide a fantastic opportunity for fans to see legends of the game in action, but more importantly, they provide an opportunity to help young people in our communities who have suffered tremendously during the pandemic," said John Shiels MBE, chief executive of Manchester United Foundation.

Because of rising living and energy costs, an increasing number of Manchester and Oldham children are at risk of living in poverty in the future. Since 2016, the number of children living in poverty in these two cities has increased by 53 percent and 84 percent, respectively.

"Many children also struggle with their mental health, and your support through events like this is critical in assisting Manchester United Foundation in delivering life-changing programs that truly impact children's futures."

 


orizu kelechi

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