david beckham
Former Manchester United player David Beckham applauds before his team's friendly soccer match against Juventus at Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester, England. - Photo by AP

MANCHESTER: David Beckham and Ryan Giggs both made appearances as former teammate Gary Neville waved farewell to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Around 42,000 fans saw Juventus emerge 2-1 winners in Neville's testimonial game which marks the final chapter in his playing career before a move into the media.

And the 36-year-old is hoping his first task will be to see his old club beating Barcelona in the Champions League final.

“The most important thing for this club now is to go and win that trophy on Saturday,” said Neville, who spent 20 years at United.

There was no mention of Giggs' off-field problems, after the Welsh player was named by a British MP as the footballer who had sought to prevent details of an alleged affair being published, as the veteran set up Wayne Rooney for United's only goal.

Paul Scholes, Anderson, John O'Shea and Rafael also played some part, although there was no action for Darren Fletcher.

Neville thanked Beckham, Nicky Butt and brother Phil, who helped complete the famed 'Class of 92' for one more United appearance.

And Beckham echoed Neville's words of hope for his old club this weekend.

“I hope we win. It is as simple as that,” Beckham told Key103.

“Barcelona are such a great football side, one of the best in the world.

“But if any club, and any manager, can beat them it is Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson. The manager continues to do it. He continues changing teams and players, yet Manchester United keep on going.

“That is why there is so much respect for him throughout the game and why he is the best manager in the world.”

Opinion

Editorial

Business concerns
Updated 26 Apr, 2024

Business concerns

There is no doubt that these issues are impeding a positive business clime, which is required to boost private investment and economic growth.
Musical chairs
26 Apr, 2024

Musical chairs

THE petitioners are quite helpless. Yet again, they are being expected to wait while the bench supposed to hear...
Global arms race
26 Apr, 2024

Global arms race

THE figure is staggering. According to the annual report of Sweden-based think tank Stockholm International Peace...
Digital growth
Updated 25 Apr, 2024

Digital growth

Democratising digital development will catalyse a rapid, if not immediate, improvement in human development indicators for the underserved segments of the Pakistani citizenry.
Nikah rights
25 Apr, 2024

Nikah rights

THE Supreme Court recently delivered a judgement championing the rights of women within a marriage. The ruling...
Campus crackdowns
25 Apr, 2024

Campus crackdowns

WHILE most Western governments have either been gladly facilitating Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza, or meekly...