A seven year old Belfast child has enjoyed the experience of a lifetime as he helped lead out his beloved Red Devils at Old Trafford for their Premier League clash with derby rivals Manchester City.
Youngster Bobby Moore led the team out alongside skipper Bruno Fernnandes after a video clip of the Belfast boy celebrating a Manchester United goal against City went viral earlier this year.
The feel-good clip caught the attention of Fernandes, who received a letter from Bobby as part of the Premier League's Fan Mail series to learn more about his love for all things United.
Bobby was born with a rare genetic condition known as spinal muscular atrophy, which requires him to use a powerchair. Being a passionate Manchester United fan, it just had to be a bright red one. He became United’s first ever wheelchair/powerchair using mascot.
The Belfast child was invited to Manchester United's Carrington training base to meet captain Fernandes and manager Ruben Amorim as well as a host of other stars
"The captain took the young Red for lunch and a tour of Carrington, during which, he met some of the other United stars," said a Manchester Uuited statement.
"To top it all off, Fernandes repaid Bobby for his endless support by offering him the chance to be our mascot for the home derby – the reverse of the fixture which provoked the initial viral reaction.
"After a special matchday experience, Bobby will take his spot in the Theatre of Dreams as we look to do pick up another league win against our crosstown rivals. Thanks for joining us, Bobby. We hope you enjoy your day!"
Sky Sports presenter David Jones described Bobby as 'a special young man'.
Fans of Manchester United and other teams were delighted to see the Northern Ireland kid get his chance to lead the team out.
"Bruno Fernandes spotted this little man cheering for us in the last Manchester Derby, and he’s become our first ever wheelchair mascot for today’s one. Love that from the captain. Kid looks absolutely over the moon," said one fan online.
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English (United States) ·