MANCHESTER United manager Erik ten Hag believes “a legend and giant” has been lost in the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton.
And Ten Hag said that his players were inspired to their 2-1 win at Sheffield United by wanting to pay a fitting tribute to the 1966 World Cup hero.
Charlton’s death at the age of 86 was announced four hours before kick-off at Bramall Lane, as Diogo Dalot curled home a suitably spectacular winner late on.
Having said before the game United ‘have to win for Sir Bobby’ following the announcement of Charlton’s passing, it was appropriate in-form midfielder Scott McTominay should put the visitors ahead with a well-taken effort just before the half hour.
But after Oli McBurnie had drilled a superb penalty into the corner when McTominay handled just six minutes later, it was left to Dalot to provide the appropriate ending in honour of the man who scored so many memorable goals during the 17 years at Old Trafford in which he became one of the greatest Englishman to ever lace up his boots.
Man of the match Harry Maguire said the news had “hit us hard” and, speaking to Sky Sports, spoke about how Charlton “lit the place up” when he came into the United dressing room.
“He’d always come in if we won or lost but his presence was really felt in the dressing room,” said the England defender. “You’d always see him around the club. We will miss him.”
Charlton’s ill health in recent years means Ten Hag never got to meet the man who has a statue in his honour outside Old Trafford and after whom the main stand is named.
The Dutchman would not have to walk around Old Trafford’s rooms too much to understand the legacy Charlton leaves; the visiting fans chanted his name before kick-off and after the final whistle.
“Of course we are very sad and our thoughts are with his family and especially his wife Lady Norma, his children and his grandchildren,” said Ten Hag.
“It is a legend, a giant passing away. His achievements are so immense and huge. It is global, not only England; you see the facts he achieved is incredible.
“All the games; his titles, his trophies, the contribution he had with his goals. I never had the honour to meet him but I heard, despite all his trophies and games, he was so humble.
“A big personality and an example for all of us as a footballer and also in society and global wide.
“It was an extra motivation, absolutely.”