Man Utd double winner looks completely different at visit to the training ground
Former Manchester United star Andrei Kanchelskis
Former Manchester United star Andrei Kanchelskis
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Manchester United cult hero Andrei Kanchelskis was welcomed back to the club for a tour of the Carrington facilities this week - and he looked completely different from his playing days.
The Russian winger was hugely popular at Old Trafford, a key figure in helping the club end a 26-year wait for the league title, and is widely remembered for a famous hat-trick in a 5-0 win over rivals Manchester City in 1994.
The club posted wholesome content of the 56-year-old receiving a replica shirt from the 1993/94 season whilst on a tour of the facilities, a season in which he played a crucial part in achieving the domestic double.
Kanchelskis was known for his explosive speed and agile dribbling; his slim, tall frame caused defenders’ nightmares throughout his time in the top flight.
Now, nearly 20 years on from his playing career he still confidently boasts a full head of hair, albeit slightly more slicked back than the curtains he wore whilst in his playing days in Manchester.
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The tricky winger enjoyed an illustrious playing career, representing the Soviet Union and Russia at international level whilst playing for Everton, Southampton, Rangers and Fiorentina.
Kanchelskis is currently coaching Russian Second Division side Dynamo Bryansk and after his retirement, he took up the sporting director role at First Division side FC Nosta Novotroitsk before settling as a manager with various sides across central Europe.
Andrei Kanchelskis celebrates scoring against Crystal Palace
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The Man United legend will be using his visit to England to gain inspiration and new ideas ahead of their domestic season kicking off in March.
After enjoying a standout campaign for the Red Devils in 1994/95, winning the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award, a shock move to Merseyside saw Kanchelskis join Everton for a club record £5 million fee and he has enjoyed somewhat of a cult status at both clubs since, a testament to his quality as a player.
Kanchelskis and his son Andrei, who is a big supporter of Everton, also visited the Toffees’ training ground this week to meet David Moyes and to see their win over Nottingham Forest in the new stadium.
When asked about his memories at the club, he said: “Every name is a big name at Man United, it was an excellent time. I remember the big boss, Sir Alex Ferguson he helped me a lot. A lot of criticism for me also when I played bad crosses.
“He was always angry for me and (Giggsy) Ryan Giggs. But it was an excellent time and thank you very much Man United, it is still in my heart.”
An early Christmas present from the club to one of their greats and a trip down memory lane for those who watched Kanchelskis play.