Gary's Primary school received a letter from Man United asking if they had any youngsters who were good enough to be sent for a trial with the Reds.

Gary's name was put forward and so began his association with the Old Trafford club.

"It seemed like there were three million kids there at United's old training ground and they had to pick just 16 for the under-11s at the School of Excellence.

"Somehow someone saw something and I was selected.

"My mum and dad always wanted me to play for United and I'd been watching the team since I was four or five.

"So to get a chance to go to their Centre of Excellence meant I was a very happy young lad."