Tributes have poured in for Manchester United stalwart Kath Phipps, who dedicated her life to the Red Devils.
A lifelong fan of the Premier League giants, Kath recently hit the milestone of 55 years as a member of staff with the club – working first at the stadium offices, then the main reception at their Carrington training ground, but returning for matchdays at Old Trafford, before the club announced her death at the age of 85 on December 5. She forged close friendships with a host of United icons – including Sir Alex Ferguson, who took his entire squad to her husband Richard’s funeral as a mark of solidarity, and David Beckham – even featuring in the star’s Netflix documentary.
A heartfelt tribute from her beloved club said: “Kath was a one-woman institution, whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her. She said last year: “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Well, we can’t imagine the place without her.”
What was Kath Phipps’ role at Manchester United?
A childhood Man United fan, Kath started working at Old Trafford as a telephone switchboard operator in September 1968 when Sir Matt Busby was still the club’s manager, in a role that saw her working closely with heroes from the era including George Best, Denis Law and Bobby Charlton.
Later she would go on to become a matchday fixture at Old Trafford’s directors’ entrance and took on the role of training ground receptionist at Carrington. She was recognised by the League Managers’ Association with a Service to Football award in 2022, prompting public tributes from David Beckham, Gary Neville and others who appreciated her role in their careers and in the day-to-day workings of the club.
In their statement, United said: “Kath worked for the club for over 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond any particular job title.”
What was her relationship like with Sir Alex Ferguson?
Speaking in an interview with Manchester United’s website in 2023, Kath revealed that she was one of the first members of staff to meet Fergie after his appointment, with the two going on to work together for a golden 26 years in the club’s history. Reflecting on their friendship, Kath said: “We always had good banter. We’d argue like brother and sister at times, he’d shout at me and I’d shout at him – but it was all in good humour. If I had to describe him in one word I’d say it is caring. He cares. When my husband passed away, he brought the players to the funeral. It amazed me. He and Cathy (Ferguson) were so good with me.”
Why did she turn down an invite from David Beckham?
Kath played such a big role in David Beckham’s life that she featured in his Netflix documentary – but turned down an invite to attend the premiere, saying: “That was quite embarrassing. I had to say no to David after being invited to the premiere because I never miss a game! I did apologise. I’ve known David since his mum and dad used to bring him to games when he was about 15. He was such a nice boy and I took a liking to him straight away.”
Becks was also one of the first to congratulate Kath after her LMA award in 2022, sending a video message in which he said: “I want to send you a message of congratulations for the award. It’s for your services to football but, more importantly, for your services to Manchester United. A club that I love, that you love and many other people love.”
What tributes have been paid?
Manchester United stars past and present were quick to take to social media to share their heartbreak after the announcement. Posting on X, forward Marcus Rashford said: “Awful news, admired by all at the club and beyond, you will be missed,” whilst women’s team star Ella Toone posted: “An amazing lady who always had a smile on her face. One of the United family who will forever be missed.”
Former goalkeeper David De Gea said: “Such a wonderful woman. Thanks for taking care of everyone,” and Ashley Young added: “RIP Kath, like losing a family member. Absolute heart and soul of our United family. Condolences and prayers with her family.”