A former Manchester United player has made an emotional return to Old Trafford many years after hanging up his boots.
Tommy Heron, originally from Irvine in Scotland, aged 88, was a member of the Manchester United squad from 1958-61. Tommy earned three senior appearances during his time at the club as a left-back.
Tommy moved on to York City in 1961, where he went on to play 192 times. Tommy also played for Altrincham, Hyde United and Droylsden during his playing career before retiring in 1970.
Tommy is now a resident at HC-One’s Brookdale View Care Home, which provides residential and nursing care in Newton Heath, Manchester. Tommy’s trip to Old Trafford was organised by the care home and Manchester United’s VIP department.
The return was nothing short of extraordinary for the former Manchester United left-back, who reflected on his time with the club under legendary manager Sir Matt Busby. Tommy played alongside iconic teammates such as Bobby Charlton, Bill Foulkes, and Nobby Stiles.
Tommy was greeted with a hero’s welcome as he was given a personal tour of the museum, where he soaked in the rich history of his former club. He enjoyed a private viewing of archived photographs and memorabilia from his playing days, where he spotted many of his old friends and teammates.
As Tommy stepped out onto the hallowed turf at the Theatre of Dreams with his daughter, Michelle, and son-in-law, John, the memories of his playing days came rushing back.
Tommy Heron, former Manchester United left-back, said:
“It’s incredible to be back here.”
The tour continued with a visit to the changing rooms, where Tommy regaled staff with stories from his playing days. When reminiscing about his pre-match routine at United, Tommy couldn’t help but laugh as he joked:
“A glass of whisky and a cigarette after a couple of hours sleep from the previous night out shenanigans!”
