Ferguson pays tribute to legend Gregg

The United supreme suffered heartache on Sunday as the Red Devils lost the league title with the last kick of the game to neighbours Manchester City, but Ferguson says he plans to honour legend Gregg by playing a strong team against an Irish League Select.

“We’ll be bringing our strongest team over,” insisted Sir Alex.

“I mean for Manchester United to honour a player who, apart from his experience of the Munich air disaster, you’ve got to remember the career he had.

“He’s a special man, no question about that. Apart from his time at Manchester United, I think that anyone who knows Harry realises that they are speaking to a really genuine man, so I’m really delighted to be bringing the team over.

“He was a courageous and brave goalkeeper. He had a great career and I remember him playing for Northern Ireland in the 1958 World Cup.

“I always remember that because I think he played the last couple of games with a broken rib.

“He had great quality and courage, qualities all keepers need to have.”

A sell-out capacity crowd of over 14,000 is set to descend on Windsor Park for the game.

It has been an overwhelming response for organisers of the clash – and speaks volumes on the support for former United and Northern Ireland goalkeeper Gregg.

Harry’s son John believes it will be a “proud and emotional” night for the family.

“The messages that have come to my dad from United supporters – from England, Northern Ireland and across the world – has been phenomenal,” John said.

“To see my dad walk out at a full house at Windsor Park will be a proud moment for him, and for me and the family.

“My dad doesn’t give too much away, but I know this means a lot.

“He is very proud of Northern Ireland and Manchester United. Go to his home and you’ll find lots of memories on the walls.

“He is terribly proud of his country and its football. He is proud to have gone to a World Cup and played for Manchester United.”