Pat Crerand
Testimonial November 26th 1975 v 1968 United XI
Outfield Kit
Goalkeeper Kit
Outfield Kit
Goalkeeper Kit
A classy half back, it was said that when Crerand played well, United played wel. Certainly his influence on the side in the Sixties cannot be over emphasised.
He arrived at Old Trafford from Celtic in February 1963 for a fee of £65,000 - a record for a wing half. Known as a tough tackling defensive midfielder, a role fulfilled at United by Maurice Setters, Crerand's creative, attacking attributes were encouraged.
His hard work, positional sense, vision, accurate passing, and determined forward runs more than made up for his lack of pace and Crerand quickly proved to be the 'missing link' as Busby rebuilt United after Munich.
A typically determined move by Crerand set up a Denis Law goal in the 1963 FA Cup Final, and he won League Championship medals in 1964 and 1966, as well as the European Cup in 1968.
Crerand remained a regular until the end of the 1970/71 season when he accepted a coaching role at the club. Promoted to assistant manager during 1972/73, he had as turbulent relationship with Tommy Docherty and eventually left United in May 1976.
Crerand had a season as manager of Northampton Town before concentrating on a career in the media. He is currently employed on MUTV providing expert analysis on matches and hosting a weekly phone-in show.