England legends Sir Trevor Brooking and Sir Bobby Charlton have been awarded the Order of Merit at the 40th UEFA Congress which took place in Budapest earlier this week.
Brooking, who represented his country 47 times and who served as FA director of football development, was recognised in the ruby category.
Charlton, synonymous with Sir Matt Busby’s Manchester United side of the 1960s and one of England’s most capped players, turning out 106 times for the Three Lions, was recognised in the diamond category.
Charlton said: “To receive this award is a huge honour for myself, my wife and all of my family. It is something I am extremely proud of and humbled by.
“I have been fortunate to play football alongside some truly magnificent players and work with some fantastic people throughout my career, and they have all played such an important part in giving me so many fond memories.
Sir Bobby Charlton helped England win the World Cup in 1966
“There have been a number of career highlights for me, on and off the field, and now to accept the UEFA Order of Merit is really special and I would like to pass on my thanks to everybody who has made this achievement possible.”
The diamond award is reserved for individuals who have ‘devoted their life’s work to the beautiful game, and through their long-term commitment and dedication have consistently strived to make football the best it can be’, whilst the ruby category rewards ‘remarkable achievement in the growth and development of football.’
Brooking said: “I’m honoured to have been welcomed into this very special group of winners, many of whom I have personally admired from afar and who have, in their own unique way, helped progress the game I love.
“As a boy growing up in Barking to donning the Three Lions of the national team, football has taken me on a wonderful journey and this acknowledgment is a fitting reminder.”
