Sir Bobby Charlton's backing saved Sir Alex Ferguson's Man Utd career when he was 'vulnerable'

Sir Alex Ferguson once explained how Sir Bobby Charlton's backing when he was "vulnerable" played a crucial role during his early days at Manchester United.

United legend Charlton, who played 758 games and scored 249 goals during a trophy-laden 17 year spell at Old Trafford, sadly passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 86.

A statement from Charlton's family read: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Sir Bobby passed peacefully in the early hours of Saturday morning. He was surrounded by his family.

"His family would like to pass on their thanks to everyone who has contributed to his care and for the many people who have loved and supported him. We would request that the family's privacy be respected at this time."

A graduate of Manchester United's youth Academy, Charlton lifted the European Cup, three league titles and the FA Cup during his spell with the club.

Following his retirement, he would go on to serve United as their director for 39 years, and during this time, Charlton would oversee the unprecedented success of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ferguson, who took over the reigns at United in 1986, would lift 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies during a 26-and-a-half-year spell.

But the Scot struggled early on. In fact, Ferguson might not have lasted had it not been for Charlton.

"At United, especially in the early years, I found it very assuring to know that Bobby was on my side," Ferguson said back in 2017.

"I never went out of my way to curry favour with him, but he had originally helped advise the board to sign me as a manager and I always felt he was in my corner."

He added: "During bleak times he often said: ‘You’ll be all right. You’re doing the right thing'. In the months following our 5-1 [defeat] to Manchester City in September 1989 I was feeling a mite vulnerable and Bobby’s backing - particularly during this period - counted for a lot.

"Not only did his opinion carry a lot of weight through the club, but a few well-chosen words lifted my spirits too. Every leader needs an ally like that."

Image credit: Getty

In a statement on their website, Manchester United paid tribute to the club legend following his death.

“Manchester United are in mourning following the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of our club," they said.

“Sir Bobby was a hero to millions, not just in Manchester, or the United Kingdom, but wherever football is played around the world.

“He was admired as much for his sportsmanship and integrity as he was for his outstanding qualities as a footballer; Sir Bobby will always be remembered as a giant of the game.”

The statement added: "His unparalleled record of achievement, character and service will be forever etched in the history of Manchester United and English football; and his legacy will live on through the life-changing work of the Sir Bobby Charlton Foundation.

"The club’s heartfelt sympathies are with his wife Lady Norma, his daughters and grandchildren, and all who loved him."