Watch: United and City legends gather at Old Trafford for poignant Sir Bobby Charlton tribute

A poignant tribute was paid to Sir Bobby Charlton by both Manchester United and Manchester City ahead of kick-off in today’s derby.

Legends from both clubs joined together to pay their respects to one of the most influential and pivotal icons in world football, especially here in Manchester. Alex Stepney, Pat Crerand and John Aston Jr. walked out alongside Mike Summerbee, Tony Book and Brian Kidd as they made their way to the centre circle, which was surrounded by both teams and covered in a flag that read: ‘Sir Bobby Charlton. 1937-2023. Forever loved.’

A ‘Sir Bobby’ mosaic was exhibited in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, while a banner made its way across the Stretford End which showed the great man lifting the European Cup and read: ‘The finest English footballer the world has ever seen’.   A minute’s applause was then held before the game began.