If gaining much-needed Champions League points wasn’t motivation enough, Manchester United’s players are sure to be driven by the memory of Bobby Charlton on what will be an emotional night at Old Trafford on Tuesday. The match against FC Copenhagen will be the first at United’s stadium since the death of Charlton, the England great who for so long was the club’s top scorer and is considered by many to be the best player in its illustrious history.
A minute’s silence will be observed before kick-off while players will likely wear black armbands. A wreath is expected to be laid on the field.
United’s players paid similar respects to Charlton before the Premier League match at Sheffield United on Saturday — only hours after his death was announced — and captain Bruno Fernandes was among those who dedicated the 2-1 victory at Bramall Lane to Charlton and his family.
Fernandes and United manager Erik ten Hag were at Old Trafford to sign a book of condolence on Sunday. It was a scene of mourning and commemoration for not only a great player but a highly respected person, too — “a true gentleman, family man and truly a national hero,” in the words of David Beckham.
Ten Hag said Monday he wants his players to use the emotions stirred by the memory of Charlton “in the right way.” “Bobby was a legend, a giant, not only for Manchester United but for the world of football,” he said at a news conference at United’s training complex, before which there was a minute’s silence in honor of Charlton.
