Murphy statue unveiling reminder
Supporters are reminded that the new Jimmy Murphy statue is being unveiled at Old Trafford next Wednesday (3 May).
The event will take place outside the Stretford End, as sculptor Alan Herriot's work is seen for the first time.
The location is close to where Murphy used to coach the Busby Babes on a cinder training pitch, as he was hugely influential in helping to create the brilliant team of the 1950s, alongside Sir Matt, only for the Munich Air Disaster to devastate the club. Somehow, the Welshman managed to keep the side going, with Sir Matt fighting for his life in hospital, and even steered us to the FA Cup final, against Bolton Wanderers.
With Busby able to resume his duties, the pair were obviously instrumental in the rebuilding process that would, ultimately, lead to the glorious European Cup triumph in 1968, a decade after the tragedy.
The date (3 May) has been specifically chosen because it is 65 years to the day since Murphy led the team out at Wembley, before the 2-0 defeat to Bolton in the final. England striker Nat Lofthouse scored both goals, the second of which was hugely controversial as he barged keeper Harry Gregg over the line.
Jimmy is already commemorated with the naming of the Jimmy Murphy Centre at Carrington and also the Young Player of the Year award, handed out at the end of every season.
His is the latest statue to be built in and around the ground, with Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson and Denis Law immortalised and also the Trinity (Law, Sir Bobby Charlton and George Best) bronze situated outside the East Stand.
Next Wednesday's event begins at 16:30 BST, with the ceremony starting half an hour later and running until 17:30 BST. Stadium announcer Alan Keegan is the compere and the unveiling will feature words from the club and the Murphy family.
Signs will be erected to guide fans into an area to congregate and there will also be complimentary soft drinks supplied for those in attendance.