Jaap Stam left Manchester United acrimoniously in 2001 after winning three Premier League titles and a Champions League. Things got out of hand between Sir Alex Ferguson and the player, so there was only winner then on.
Stam, aged 40, will wear the red shirt again after agreeing to play in the United v Real Madrid Legends match. The decision to sell him is still regarded a mistake by many on Ferguson’s behalf. For instance, the legendary Dutch centre-half’s name is still chanted from the terraces, therefore, the fans have always held him in high regard despite the drama/shock of his departure.
Fans are granted an opportunity to not only see Stam perform once more, but Teddy Sheringham, Nicky Butt and Edwin van der Sar will also return. They will be joined by regulars such as Dwight Yorke, Andrew Cole, Denis Irwin, Lee Sharpe, Dion Dublin and Quinton Fortune. These former reds have played part in Masters’ tournaments in recent years for the club and make appearances on MUTV weekly.
United’s veterans will be looking to overturn a 3-2 deficit inflicted upon them in the Bernabeu last summer and raise cash for the Manchester United Foundation.
It will be Van der Sar’s first appearance at Old Trafford since his retirement in 2011. He said: “I was lucky to enjoy an incredible career and finish on a high with Manchester United. Of course I have missed playing football and I’m really looking forward to returning to Old Trafford. Nothing can replicate the feeling of competing in front of a home crowd against a quality opposition like Real Madrid and to do it for charity makes it more special. In my time at United, I visited some of the Foundation’s projects and I know the money raised from this game will really help to make a difference.”
For tickets visit the official website or call 0161 868 8000.
Ready to see the legends of stam’s caliber and the likes of Butt, the great Van der saar, Dion Dublin,once more.they are the middle foundation of United today. Viva United, viva legends.