Sir Bobby Charlton’s legacy will forever remain at Manchester United – as the many tributes and celebrations of his life, following his devastating passing, have demonstrated in recent weeks.

Katie Zelem, a graduate of the Girls Academy, laid a wreath in Sir Bobby’s honour away to Everton, ahead of what was the women’s team’s first fixture after the passing of our club legend.

Sir Bobby’s impact continues to be felt by those younger players in the Girls Academy, too, with one playing an important role in our matchday activity to commemorate the life of the man who made an astounding 758 appearances for the club.

Before our men’s team’s fixture against Manchester City at the end of October, Manchester United Foundation held a poignant tribute to remember Sir Bobby.

Foundation Chief Executive John Shiels was helped in laying a wreath in front of the Trinity Statue on the Old Trafford forecourt by Girls Academy Under-12 player Eva and her brother Jayden, before they paused for a moment’s reflection.

Despite her youthful age, Sir Bobby was a great role model to Eva – who learned about his unrivalled contribution to Manchester United with tales of his greatness from her dad.

“I felt really honoured because I was the one of the only people to do this,” Eva said of her involvement in the tribute to Sir Bobby.

“It’s honestly great. Sir Bobby inspired me when I was growing up and that always made me want to be like him. He’s a proper role model to me and I loved him when I was growing up.”

Eva, a United-supporting central midfielder, was asked to form part of the tribute because of how she represents everything Sir Bobby stood for – embodying the values of Manchester United, possessing great talent and being a part of the Academy from a young age.

Eva’s coach in the Girls Academy, Jolene Murray, said: “Eva is a brilliant player and an even better person and team-mate.

“She is a pleasure to coach and always works extremely hard. This opportunity is so inspiring for her and her family, and something she’ll remember for the rest of her life.”