Sir Bobby Charlton Proud Of UEFA Award

Sir Bobby Charlton has declared his pride at being awarded UEFA's Order of Merit in recognition of his lifelong devotion to football.

The Manchester United legend and club ambassador, who last month had Old Trafford's South Stand renamed after him, told TheFA.com:

"To receive this award is a huge honour for myself, my wife and all of my family. It is something I am extremely proud of and humbled by.

"I have been fortunate to play football alongside some truly magnificent players and work with some fantastic people throughout my career, and they have all played such an important part in giving me so many fond memories.

"There have been a number of career highlights for me, on and off the field, and now to accept the UEFA Order of Merit is really special and I would like to pass on my thanks to everybody who has made this achievement possible."

Former United chief executive and FA vice-chairman David Gill accepted the award on Sir Bobby's behalf at the 40th UEFA Congress in Budapest, Hungary. Another England legend, Sir Trevor Brooking, was also honoured at the ceremony for his services to football development in this country.