Why Manchester United's treatment for six wounded British soldiers meant more than any poppy display

By The Mole

Published 06:01 22/11/09

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Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United  may not have worn poppies on Remembrance weekend but they proved to a group of wounded troops that they really are a caring club.

Six soldiers badly injured in Afghanistan were United’s guests over a fabulous two days as they met legends such as Ryan Giggs and Sir Bobby Charlton and visited the Carrington training ground before being paraded on the pitch at half-time during the Old Trafford clash with Blackburn.

One of the war heroes, Corporal Paul Findlay, 24, of the 19 Light Brigade, said the highlight of United’s generosity was a dinner at which Sir Alex, one of his footballing heroes, paid tribute to the brave soldiers.

He said: “They were two of the best days of my life. Sir Alex and Manchester United really put themselves out to make sure we enjoyed ourselves.

“It was an unforgettable experience. We were taken to the Carrington training ground and met all the United players.

“That evening we were invited to a dinner hosted by the Manchester United Supporters Association.

“Sir Alex paid tribute to our group and the work of our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq with a speech that moved everyone in the room.

“It was one of the greatest speeches I have ever heard. It really touched all of us.”