Jadon Sancho has paid tribute to Manchester United staff member Kath Phipps after she passed away at the age of 85.
Phipps was a popular figure at United having had a long term role at the club's training ground Carrington. She began working for the club in the late 1960s and worked in a variety of roles over 55 years.
And Sancho, who is currently on loan at Chelsea from United, has sent an emotional message in tribute on social media. The winger spent just over two seasons at Old Trafford having joined in 2021 from Borussia Dortmund.
"I'm grateful I've had the pleasure of meeting you," he said. "Such a lovely kind hearted soul.
"She always made sure I was ok and always put a smile on my face whenever I felt down. I appreciate you Kath.
"My condolences go out to her family through this tough time."
United have said Phipps ensured visitors to Carrington were greeted by the "cheeriest of welcomes" and that her positive attitude "helped set the mood for everyone entering the training ground."
The club have described Phipps as a "one-woman institution" and have said her "memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her."
Jadon Sancho has sent an emotional message on social media
Jadon Sancho has sent an emotional message on social media (Image: @Sancho)
Last year, Phipps reflected on her 55th anniversary at the club in an interview. “I don’t think I’ve had one cross word with anybody in all the years I’ve been here," she said.
"I look forward to coming in and having a smile on my face every day, wishing people ‘good morning’. I just enjoy being here. Not everybody can say they enjoy going to work but I do. Football has been my life.”
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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