Man United players pay respects to the late Bobby Charlton before Premier League game

SHEFFIELD, England — Wearing black armbands, Manchester United's players laid a wreath in the center of the field and took part in a period of applause ahead of their Premier League game Saturday in honor of Bobby Charlton, the club great who has died at the age of 86.

A picture of a young Charlton was shown on the screens inside Bramall Lane before kickoff of Man United's 2-1 win at Sheffield United as members of both teams stood in a line to pay their respects to one of the world's most recognizable and respected soccer players.

A message on the wreath laid in front of the Man United players read: “In loving memory of Sir Bobby.”

Scott McTominay was selected in Man United's team for the match and said it was a tough moment for him and his teammates.

“Everyone has gone into this game thinking of him and wanting to do the best for Bobby,” McTominay said.

Man United manager Erik ten Hag said he had never met Charlton, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2020, but appreciated he was “an outstanding person, an outstanding gentleman in every inch, outstanding on the pitch and off the pitch.”

“He is an example for everyone,” Ten Hag said. “We know not only is the football world losing a big person but the whole of society.”

A book of condolence will be open to the public at Old Trafford from Sunday.