United Under-23s friendly to honour Bert Whalley
Manchester United's Under-23s are to play a pre-season fixture at Stalybridge Celtic and unveil a special plaque in honour of former coach Bert Whalley.
The Busby Babes' coach tragically lost his life in the Munich Air Disaster in 1958 after working with Sir Matt to train the outrageously talented young Reds side.
A defender for Stalybridge and United, his career was halted by World War II before a serious eye injury forced him to retire. He was then recruited by Sir Matt to become a key part of his backroom team, initially taking charge of the club's 'A' team. Whalley earned a reputation as a fine coach and spotter of young talent.
The PFA plaque will be officially unveiled at 18:00 BST on Tuesday 27 July, ahead of the kick-off at 19:45 BST.
The fixture will form part of United's pre-season campaign as Neil Wood's youngsters prepare for the 2021/22 season.
Ticket details for the clash at Bower Fold will be announced in due course.
United have a good relationship with Stalybridge Celtic - ex-keeper Alex Fojticek had a loan spell at the Northern Premier League club in 2019, as did defender Max Taylor in the following January, and the clubs have had friendly matches in the past.