Football is a passion, Manchester United a way of life. For over 56 years I’ve watched youngsters come and go, including today’s Academy. The greatest young English footballer was Duncan Edwards.

In September 1957, I met all the Busby babes at Bramhall. Bobby Charlton was one of the youngest, but Duncan stood out. I had followed his career for over six years.

At 11 he was a prodigy. I first saw him when he achieved his dream to be an England schoolboy international at just 14. At 18 he was the youngest post war England debutante and went on to play 18 times, scoring 5 goals. His greatest was against West Germany, weaving past 5 players from his own penalty area before unleashing a terrific shot from 30 yards with his ‘wrong’ foot.

He made his League debut in 1953 at 16. By Munich he already had 175 appearances and 21 goals. Primarily a midfielder, he played anywhere from centre half to centre forward. A big man, he had ‘strength and grace’. He took all the throw-ins and corners.

Eight of the lads on that fateful plane were 22 and under. Duncan was just 21. Many recall the three week fight for life that epitomised the spirit he brought to his football. He lit the torch for midfielders that Robson, Ince, Cantona and Keane have carried with glory. He was the complete footballer. Few doubt that had he lived he would have been one of the world greats.

As Sir Bobby Charlton has said “If I had to play for my life and could take one man with me, it would be him."

21 February 2008 is the 50th anniversary of Duncan Edwards’ death. At his memorial, few will disagree “he was the greatest of them all.” Tweet