The football world will gather to say goodbye to Scotland hero Denis Law – but reportedly won’t be joined by the owners of the club where he became an icon.
Capped 55 times, the Lawman remains the only Scot to ever win FIFA’s Ballon d’Or – and is revered as one of the greatest players in Manchester United history. However, the Red Devils’ owners, the Glazer family, aren’t expected to be represented at his funeral – as they snubbed the Manchester Cathedral service, despite Law netting 237 goals in 404 appearances during a glittering career at Old Trafford. And that has prompted disgust from Law’s former teammate, Northern Irishman Sammy McIlroy.
Speaking about the snub on BBC Radio Ulster prior to the service, a furious McIlroy said: “For a player that has played so long at Manchester United not to be respected by the owners of the football club I think it is absolutely ridiculous I really do. They are not very popular owners anyway but not to send anyone in respect of a fantastic man and player for the football club I just think it is totally out of order.”
But he stressed that the Glazer’s decision not to bother with Law’s service wouldn’t take away from what will be a fitting tribute to one of the game’s all-time greats. He continued: “It is going to be a special occasion, no doubt about that. People will be coming in their thousands to pay respects to a great man and a fantastic footballer.
“Denis will be well remembered, there is no doubt about that. I think players from other teams who played maybe with Denis internationally or at club level against him I think will come and pay their respects because he was that well thought of as a man and as a player.”
Law passed away after a brave four-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, prompting tributes from across the game. Legendary United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said: “There’s a saying in Scotland when people get carried away; ‘who do you think you are, Denis Law?’ He was the best Scottish player of all time. He was a fantastic player.”
David Beckham added: “We lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis’s family. Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off.” Fellow Red Devils icon Eric Cantona added: “Rest in peace Denis. You were one of those who helped me feel at home in Manchester United. Thank you my friend.”