The footballing world was hit with the devastating news of Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing on Saturday afternoon, as the game lost one of its most iconic and beloved icons.
His illustrious honours list includes a European Cup with Manchester United, three Division One titles, an FA Cup, a Ballon d’Or and the 1966 World Cup, in which he helped the Three Lions on their way to unforgettable glory.
Tributes poured in from past and present United and England players, as well as a host of other athletes who wanted to pay their respects to the sporting legend.
A particularly touching message was from former Red David Beckham, who detailed the impact that Charlton had on his career blossoming.
Back in 1976, Sir Bobby set up a first-of-its-kind soccer school to help develop and unearth young talents while aiding them on their way to professional careers. In 1985, Beckham learned of the camp after seeing an advert on Blue Peter and opted to attend.
Becks reflects on Sir Bobby’s impact
With Charlton so impressed by what he saw from young Becks, he went on to tell United of his talents and recommend they snap him up.
Beckham told the BBC in 2017: “That’s how my career started at Manchester United. I went at 10 years old and went back there the year after and ended up winning the competition.
“That was when Sir Bobby contacted Manchester United and said ‘Maybe you should have a look out for this young kid’. So I owe everything to Sir Bobby because, if not, maybe I wouldn’t have had the chance of living my dream of playing for the club that I’d supported for so many years and the club my Dad supported.”
In an Instagram post yesterday, Beckham shared a picture of himself with Sir Bobby back in the day along with the touching caption: “It all began with Sir Bobby. Sir Bobby was the reason I had the opportunity to play for Manchester United… I will forever be grateful to a man I was named after, someone I looked up to and was a hero to many around the world – not just in Manchester and our country, where he won the World Cup in 1966.
“A true gentleman, family man and truly a national hero. Today isn’t just a sad day for Manchester United & England, it’s a sad day for football and everything that Sir Bobby represented. Our thoughts go out to Lady Norma, their daughters and grandchildren. Rest in peace, Sir Bobby.”
