Sir Bobby Charlton: The humble genius loved and respected throughout world football

Brian Kidd has just heard the news that has created a deep sense of mourning at Manchester United, in English and indeed world football, and he needs to wipe away his tears.

“Bobby’s modesty and humility for a world class player were incredible,” says his former teammate on learning that the great Sir Bobby Charlton had passed away on Saturday morning, aged 86.

“Bobby wasn’t vocal, he just let his football do the talking. A simple, ‘Hey, come on', was enough to let me know that he wanted more. He led by example to young lads like me. He was emphatic yet so demanding. He challenged me because he wanted to help me. He set the standards for others to follow.”

A graduate of United’s youth academy, Charlton played 758 times for the club between 1956 and 1973, an appearance record which was only broken by Ryan Giggs in 2008. Charlton scored 249 goals for United, making him the club’s highest all-time goalscorer for 40 years until surpassed by Wayne Rooney. But Charlton was about more than incredible numbers.

“You knew you couldn’t get near him as a player, but you did your best to get into the same team as him,” added Kidd. “I played with George (Best), Denis (Law) and Bobby. Three truly world-class players in the same part of the pitch. Three European Footballers of the Year.

“I defy anyone to say whether Bobby was left or right footed. He was perfect with both. Not only was he two footed, Bobby was graceful – he’d glide across the ground. He was elegant, he had this wonderful body swerve, too. He’d pick the ball up anywhere and he was a threat to opponents, he could hit the ball hard and accurately from distance. See some of his best goals. He wasn’t known for his heading ability yet he scored in the European Cup final with