Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney have joined the wider football community in paying tribute to Denis Law, who has died at the age of 84.
Law made over 400 appearances for Manchester United between 1962 and 1973 and is widely recognised as one of their greatest ever players. He scored 237 goals for the Red Devils, putting him third on their all-time list.
A number of fellow United legends have paid their respects on social media, with Neville posting on Instagram: “Rest in peace Denis. A great footballer and a great man.
“It’s a privilege and an honour to have spent time in your company. The King of the Stretford End.” Rooney, meanwhile, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Legend. Thoughts with all Denis’ family and friends.”
“With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players. The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’ family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”
Law departed Old Trafford to join Manchester City in 1973 and the reigning Premier League champions shared a tribute of their own, adding: “The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis.”
Liverpool also posted a heartfelt message on their official account, which read: “Denis was a rival player but so highly thought of. As Bill Shankly once said: ‘Denis Law could dance on eggshells.’ Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends.”
Brian Kidd, who played alongside Law at United, told Andy Mitten: “He was slight, with the heart of a lion. An unbelievable finisher, he scored every type of goal.
“He said to me: ‘If you’re ever wide, don’t look up, put the cross in early. If I’m not there it’s my fault’. He was usually there. Sir Matt [Busby] loved him. We all did. He was the King of the Stretford End.”
Tributes have also been flooding in from outside the sporting sphere, with Piers Morgan writing: “Last surviving member of Manchester United’s genius holy footballing trinity of [George] Best, Law, [Bobby] Charlton. Brilliant player, wonderful character.”
The news of Law’s death was confirmed in a statement from his family, who said he fought a ‘tough battle’ while extending their gratitude to those who cared for him in his later years.
“It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away,” read the statement. “He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk