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Bobby's letters to stars

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton wrote emotional letter to Old Trafford stars ahead of 60th anniversary of Munich Air Disaster

Charlton survived the terrible tragedy and explained the significance of the events of February 6, 1958 to Jose Mourinho's squad

SIR BOBBY CHARLTON wrote an emotional letter to Manchester United’s players ahead of the 60th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster.

The Old Trafford club remembered the tragedy with a minute’s silence before yesterday’s win over Huddersfield.

 Sir Bobby Charlton sent an emotional letter to Manchester United's players before the Huddersfield match
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Sir Bobby Charlton sent an emotional letter to Manchester United's players before the Huddersfield matchCredit: PA:Press Association

Charlton was one of the survivors and the 80-year-old football legend — now a club director — wrote to United’s squad explaining the significance of the events of February 6, 1958.

He said: “Words cannot describe the devastating effect that this had on the football club and the lives of those affected.

“Whether on board the plane, or in the aftermath for those and their families and friends, this disaster was life-changing for so many of my good friends.

“The devastating effect still lives on and this great football club, which you are part of, has risen from its darkest hour in a way like no other.

 Each of the Manchester United squad was given a heartfelt briefing ahead of Huddersfield game by Sir Bobby Charlton
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Each of the Manchester United squad was given a heartfelt briefing ahead of Huddersfield game by Sir Bobby CharltonCredit: PA:Press Association
 Old Trafford observed a minute's silence in memory of the victims of the Munich Air Disaster
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Old Trafford observed a minute's silence in memory of the victims of the Munich Air DisasterCredit: PA:Press Association
 Tuesday marks the 60th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster
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Tuesday marks the 60th anniversary of the Munich Air DisasterCredit: PA:Press Association
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“I wanted to thank you for the role which you and your team-mates will play in the tributes.”

Manager Jose Mourinho added his tribute in the programme. He wrote: “That terrible day will always be remembered. It is a big part of the story of the club and it is important we recognise our history.”


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Earlier, fans had shown their respect at the ground’s Munich plaque. There were readings and prayers.
On Tuesday, there will be a ceremony inside Old Trafford with a minute’s silence at 3.04pm — the exact time the tragedy occurred.

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