There’s no shortage of familiar names in Manchester United’s past.
One of those is Ryan Giggs, who was a sensation as a youngster and went on to become one of the most decorated players in the club’s history.
Even though Robson was already 34 when Giggs made his first-team debut in 1991, he immediately saw something special in the young winger.
This says a lot about how much Robson respects what Giggs did during his time at United.
Ryan Giggs named as Bryan Robson’s best Man Utd teammate
Robson made the move to United in October 1981, when former manager Ron Atkinson paid a then-British record fee of £1.5 million to sign him from West Brom.
Known for his fearless tackling, goalscoring ability, and leadership, Robson quickly became a fan favourite at Old Trafford.
His career highlights include the 1983 FA Cup final, the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1991, and lifting the inaugural Premier League trophy to end United’s 26-year title drought.
With 461 appearances to his name, Robson is regarded as one of the club’s greatest ever players. He recently appeared on the Inside Carrington podcast to share stories from his time in the dressing room.
“You’re putting me on the spot now,” Robson responded. “Because there were some great players who played for United, but just for longevity and how much he won – Giggsy.”
Giggs broke into Sir Alex Ferguson’s squad while Robson was still an experienced player at the club. The Welsh winger went on to win everything there was to win with United, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues.
Ryan Giggs recalls the time Bryan Robson set him up with a classic prank
During his 23-year stint at United, Giggs grew into a key figure for Sir Alex Ferguson on the pitch.
On a previous episode of the UTD Podcast, he recounted an early memory from his playing days, when Robson caught him out with a well-timed prank.
“I got stitched up,” Giggs said.
“My memories of that… the first thing that comes to mind is the gaffer’s red face, looking at me and wanting to throw me out the window!
“I had said to Bryan Robson [beforehand], ‘Robbo, everyone’s got a club car [apart from me] and I’ve played 25 games in the first team now.’
“He said: ‘Yeah, I think you should go and ask the manager. Tell him you’ve played 25 games and ask him to give you a car.’ Robbo had never taken the mick out of me or done any practical jokes, so I trusted him.
“So I’ve gone knocking on the door and I’ve said to the manager, ‘Listen, boss, I’ve played 25 games now, I think I’m fairly established. What about a club car?’ Halfway through the sentence I could see his face changing, and as soon as I said ‘club car’, I could see his face was red and he just started swearing at me.
“He said: ‘Club car? You won’t even get a club bike. Get out of this office now, before I throw you out!’ As I opened the door, half the first team were outside – they had been listening in, looking for a reaction. You live and learn!”
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