Manchester United's 6 Most Dedicated Players in History

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It takes a certain breed of footballer to run out at Old Trafford in Manchester United red.

The pressure that comes with being a Red Devil can be too immense for some, but for others, it is an energy from which to thrive on.

Here are the six most dedicated players in United history, whether this is based on their longevity at the club, or their sheer will power and passion while playing.

As always, this list is intended to spark debate, rather than end it.

Honourable Mentions

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Denis Law: Scottish striker who scored 237 goals for the Red Devils over the course of 11 seasons. Loses points for later switch to Manchester City.

Gary Neville: Die-hard Manchester United fan and a model of professionalism in the dressing room.

Pat Crerand: No-nonsense defensive midfielder who later became both a coach and a pundit for United.

Alex Stepney: Goalkeeper who played for United for 12 years and won the European Cup. Even scored at the other end a couple of times.

Nemanja Vidic: Tough, uncompromising captain never afraid to put his body on the line for the cause.

6. Paul Scholes

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Kicking off our top six is Manchester United's own pass master and midfield maestro, Paul Scholes.

The Ginger wizard has played for the Red Devils for 19 years and racked up an astonishing 713 appearances in all competitions.

He has won 10 Premier League trophies, three FA Cups and the Champions League twice.

A fantastic role model for aspiring young players, Scholes is a modest character whose loyalty to United is beyond question.

5. Bill Foulkes

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Bill Foulkes played in the Busby Babes side of the 1950's, and was a survivor of the Munich air disaster in '58.

The central defender stayed on for United following the tragedy for a further 12 years, playing a key role in the subsequent rebuild and rebirth of the club.

The Englishman was a starter in the European Cup final win of 1968, and won a total of four First Division titles at Old Trafford.

He retired a Red at the age of 38 to take up a coaching position at the club.

4. Roy Keane

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One of the defining figures in Manchester United history, and perhaps their greatest captain.

Roy Keane practically invented the term "giving 110 percent" with his buccaneering, never-say-die attitude on the pitch.

Not only did he expect perfection of himself, but he also inspired his teammates to play their best football with a healthy mix of leading by example and fear.

Though his United career ended a little underwhelmingly, his dedication to the club was never in doubt while he was at Old Trafford.

3. Bryan Robson

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A Manchester United player between 1981 and 1994, Bryan Robson gave the best part of himself to the pursuit of glory for the Red Devils.

Having fought like a lion on the pitch, the central midfielder's body was left completely battered by the time he was sold on to Middlesbrough.

Captain Marvel won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup while with the Red Devils.

Has recently worked as an ambassador for United following an unsuccessful foray into management.

2. Ryan Giggs

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Second spot on the list goes to a man whose body seems to defy the natural aging process.

Ryan Giggs has been a Manchester United player for 22 years, making 930 appearances predominantly on the left wing.

He has played a major part in every single one of Sir Alex Ferguson's Premier League-winning campaigns, tearing defenders apart in the process.

The thrilling Welshman surely ranks as one of the most dedicated one-club players in the history of the game.

1. Bobby Charlton

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In ranking the Red Devils' most dedicated players, there can only be one winner—Bobby Charlton.

Mr. Manchester United has spent the best part of his life and working career at Old Trafford, as a surviving Busby Babe, a European Cup winner and now a club director.

His sportsmanship, attitude to the game and life and humble nature are an inspiration to younger generations.

The attacking midfielder played a total of 758 games for United, but his influence, both physical and in spirit, can still be felt at the Theatre of Dreams today.

 

Who else would you call Manchester United's most dedicated players in history?