Cole honoured at ex-players' dinner

Our most-successful manager reunited with his former team members, together with a host of other club legends, at the event held by the Association of Former Manchester United Players.

The dinner in Old Trafford’s Manchester Suite marked the 40th anniversary of AFMUP, which maintains a social network among former United players and raises money for charity.

Cole joined a prestigious group of United’s most-celebrated players, who have been honoured by AFMUP over the years, in recognition of his 121 goals in 275 appearances for the club between 1995 and 2001.

Event host Alan Keegan introduced Cole as “arguably the greatest centre-forward of the modern era”, reflecting on a prolific trophy haul that included five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and one Champions League.

Cole was joined on stage by his 1999 Treble-winning team-mate Gary Neville and current United defender Jonny Evans for a question-and-answer session in front of the 300-strong audience.

Cole and Neville drew laughter with their memories of experiencing the famous 'hairdryer treatment' from Sir Alex, as their former boss sat at the top table in front of them.

Evans, currently in his second spell with United, recalled his magical experience of growing up as a fan of the club in Belfast, before joining our Academy and progressing to the first team to win three Premier League titles and a host of other trophies in the red shirt.

Sir Alex then joined the trio on stage as Cole was presented with his award from AFMUP.

Also in attendance were United CEO Omar Berrada, director David Gill and honorary president Martin Edwards.

An auction including complimentary seats and hospitality in the Old Trafford directors’ box for a game next season raised thousands of pounds for the good causes that AFMUP supports.

Other former players at the dinner included 1968 European Cup-winner and former coach Brian Kidd, 1977 FA Cup-winning captain Martin Buchan, and Sammy McIlroy, the attacking midfielder who came through the youth ranks to make over 400 appearances for United between 1971 and 1982.