Like the ‘Believe’ and European Cup mosaics of the past two semi-finals and last year’s final, United fans in Rome will be creating a mosaic which reads ‘for Sir Matt’.

Sir Matt Busby would have been 90 on the day we won the European Cup back in 1999 and the eve of this year’s final will mark what would have been his 100th birthday.

“We wanted to do something to mark Sir Matt’s 100th birthday and we were approached by the fans with an idea that would recognise the role he had played in the club’s unique place in Europe,” said David Gill. “Alex liked the idea straight away. The mosaic will remind millions of people around the world what a great man Sir Matt was.”

Sir Matt’s son, Sandy, has also responded to the plan and reckons his dad would be dead chuffed. 

“It’s going to be really heart-rending when the mosaic is lifted up and I’m sure there are going to be a few tears from my sister and myself,” said Sandy. “My dad would have been so proud and pleased. He was a sentimental man and he would be absolutely delighted that the fans still remember him with such affection and still sing songs in his honour but this is something else – he will be the proudest man in heaven.”

Don’t forget about our Sir Matt Busby t-shirt competition.