The bi-annual event is organised by the Foundation in association with ‘wish’ charities such as Starlight Children’s Foundation, Taylor Made Dreams and Willow Foundation.

United manager Louis van Gaal and club captain Wayne Rooney led the first-team as they signed autographs and posed for photographs with fans with serious and life-limiting illnesses. Eager guests were also given exclusive access to watch the team train from the balcony of the Jimmy Murphy visitors’ centre.

Khushil, 13, from London, who has a brain tumour, thoroughly enjoyed the experience and said, “I’ve met Mata and Schweinsteiger and pretty much most of the team; it was really fun and exciting and I talked to the manager, which was even better because he is the manager!”

Khushil’s mum, Namrata, echoed her son’s thoughts: “It’s been a big day for us today because this is Khushil’s dream come true; it’s been a very big day, thank you so much.”

Taking part in his third Dream Day event, United manager Louis van Gaal said, “It’s nice to bring some happiness to both the children and their parent’s here today, but it is also good for my players to see this because it’s not always hallelujah in life. Days like today always put things into perspective for all of us.”

Red’s winger Memphis Depay was on hand with his team-mates to lend his support: “I think you can see what the children get from these days; it’s good for us as players because for everybody smiles are important and this day really makes them happy.”

Midfielder, Ander Herrera, also expressed his delight at meeting the young fans: “The kids here are big United fans and show us great support so we are very happy to come and try to make this day good for them.”