Red Devils to rename South Stand

Posted Tuesday, February 16, 2016 by foxsportsasia.com

Red Devils to rename South Stand
Manchester United are to name the South Stand at Old Trafford after club legend and current director Bobby Charlton.

Charlton joined United in 1953 and, having survived the Munich air crash five years later, went on to make 758 appearances, scoring a record 249 goals.

He also played a key role in England's World Cup win in 1966 and was his country's top scorer before being surpassed in September 2015 by United captain Wayne Rooney.

"Bobby is, quite simply, the most iconic figure in English football history. A player, a diplomat, a gentleman and a tireless worker for charity, he represents everything that is good about football and Manchester United," United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said in a statement.

"It has been a privilege to know him and humbling to work alongside him for the last 10 years. Renaming the South Stand, which contains both the Directors' Box and the old players' changing rooms, is a fitting tribute to all that Bobby has contributed to the club both as a player and a director."

The South Stand contains the only original part of the 1910 stadium infrastructure, as well as the directors' box and old players' changing rooms. Charlton, 78, thanked his friends and family for the support, dedicating the honour to them.

"I would like to thank everyone connected with Manchester United. So many people work so hard to keep us at the top; their effort should never be forgotten. But most of all, I would like to thank Norma, my wonderful wife, and my family for the support and encouragement they have always provided. This is for them," he said.

The unveiling of the newly named stand will take place at the home game against Everton on 2 April.