Charlton - Make history

United legend keen to see current crop make their mark

Last updated: 15th May 2008

800600 Sir Bobby Charlton Liverpool v Manchester United

Charlton: History maker

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Sir Bobby Charlton has urged Manchester United's players not to be burdened by history but rather write their own chapter in the record books.

The United legend spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson's side in February, the 50th anniversary of the Munich air disaster, to educate the current crop of what has passed before them.

Charlton, a European Cup winner in 1968, told United's players that to win the UEFA Champions League would be to write their own names in history.

And while Charlton is quick to pay tribute to those that perished in Munich, he is also quick to reiterate that next week's final in Moscow is about doing it for themselves first and foremost.

"It would not be fair to put total responsibility on them to win the Champions League to help commemorate the 50th anniversary of the tragedy," said Charlton.

"They will make their own mark. They know they will make their own history if they win the European Cup.

"That's what it should be about for them. I had no qualms at all about saying what I did to this group of players.

No pressure

"It wasn't pressure. I would never put pressure on them.

"There is no doubt that if they can beat Chelsea next week in the final then there will be a lot of satisfaction amongst anyone connected with Munich."

Charlton believes the football played by United this season means they would be deserved champions of Europe, should they taste glory in Russia.

"This team would deserve to add the European Cup to the league title.

"Ask any of the fans and they will say this has been a great season, no matter what happens, but to win the Champions League is something to be really proud of."