United in grief for Reds legend

The widow of Jack Crompton says she has been overwhelmed by the number of cards and messages she has received following the Manchester United veteran’s death last week.

The former Manchester United goalkeeper died of prostate cancer at the age of 91 and hundreds have sent their condolences to Sheila at their home in Chadderton. The couple had been married for 34 years.

She said: “I’ve had so many cards, flowers and messages from everyone. It has been difficult coming to terms with his death but the messages have really helped. Jack would have been so touched and humbled to have known that so many people cared about him.”

Sir Alex Ferguson, David Gill, Tommy Docherty, Brian Kidd, Martin Buchan and members of the United former players’ association have all been in touch to offer their sympathies.

She added: “People are flying in from around the world for the funeral. I don’t know how we will fit everyone in the church, but I am sure we will find a way.”

The former goalkeeper helped the Reds to FA Cup victory against Blackpool in 1946 and the league title four years later.

After the Munich air disaster, Jack became a United coach and played a vital part in United’s 1968 European Cup win.

The funeral is at 2pm tomorrow at Fairfield Moravian Church, Droylsden. Donations in lieu of flowers to the Kingfisher Community Special School, Chadderton.