Gary Neville made an emotional return to the Old Trafford turf as his testimonial match revived fond memories of the Class of '92.
David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes - as well as Gary's younger brother Phil - all joined the former United captain on the park, and there was also a familiar face in the opposition ranks as Italy legend Alessandro Del Piero skippered the visitors Juventus. And while the Italians slightly pooped the party by winning 2-1, after Wayne Rooney had opened the scoring for the Reds, this was still a night to remember for Neville and the thousands of fans who turned out to salute him.
Great cheers – not to mention a female scream or two from South Stand – greeted every early touch from David Beckham, including a trademark flighted ball that sent his old team-mate and best man scurrying down the right flank.
Sir Alex made seven substitutions in total, the last one receiving the most attention as Gary Neville bowed out to a standing ovation from all four sides of the stadium with five minutes remaining. It was a fitting and fond farewell to one of the club's most faithful servants - and no doubt the ultra-competitive former captain was just sorry he couldn't steer the Reds to one last victory.
Juventus: Storari (Manninger, 45); Motta (Marchisio 45), Chiellini (Bonucci, 45), Melo (Giandonato, 69), De Creglie (Traore, 10); Pepe (Sorensen, 45), Krasic, Aquilani (Martinez, 45), Barzagli (Salihamidzic, 65); Toni (Matri, 45), Del Piero (Boniperti, 65). Subs not used: Buffon.
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