JIMMY MURPHY AND HIS STATUE

Jimmy Murphy was an influential figure at Old Trafford and this season his statue has been erected and unveiled at the ground's Stretford End. The long-standing assistant to Sir Matt Busby, Murphy played his part in the club's recovery from the devastation of the Munich Air Crash. (video below)

Many claim Murphy was pivotal in the rebuilding of the club from the disaster that killed 8 players out of the 23 strong touring party, on its was to a European cup tie. Murphy missed the match and the fateful flight (European Airways Flight 609), commited to the Welsh national side preparing for the 1958 World Cup finals, a qualifying play-off against Israel.

Busby and many of the travelling squad were suffering in hospital from their injuries as Murphy held the fort at the club, which he did with considerable success. The United fraternity decided to "honour" Murphy, as the club had done in past with statues of Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson and "The Holy Trinity", Best, Charlton and Law. BELOW A 10 MINUTE FILM.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAK2ouHNLYI

Murphy's son, Jimmy, said that "This is an extremely proud moment for all the family. We have cherished our father's contribution to Manchester United but this wonderful statue is further confirmation of his remarkable legacy at Old Trafford.

The statue is located directly above the touchline of the old ash-cinder pitch where Murphy used to train the Busby Babes, pre-Munich. Sir Alec, speaking at the unveiling, hailed Murphy as a "fantastic person in the history of the club". Alec never forgot the support he got from Murphy, when he took over the club in 1986.

COMMISSIONING OF THE STATUE Award-winning sculptor Alan Herriot was appointed to design and develop the statue after consultation between the club and the fan coalition in 2022. 

Jimmy played a crucial role as a coach and later assistant manager to Sir Matt Busby between 1946 and 1971.The Welshman was integral in the development of the Busby Babes, including Sir Bobby Charlton and Duncan Edwards, and was crucial in the club’s recovery after the Munich Air Disaster. 

Various potential locations for the statue were suggested, but it was agreed, following consultation, that the tribute will be situated outside the Stretford End of Old Trafford close to the area where Jimmy used to coach the Busby Babes on a training pitch made of ash cinders. 

https://www.manutd.com/en/videos/detail/star-maker-the-jimmy-murphy-story