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David Gaskell, Manchester United's youngest goal-keeper, who debuted at 16, died aged 84 due to prolonged illness. Way back in 1956, in an incredible turn of events, the custodian made his Charity Shield debut for the Red Devils. Gaskell spent over 13 years with the club, joining as a young and making 118 appearances. He played 11 seasons for the United after getting promoted to play with senior players. His brilliance helped him win two league titles.
Gaskell played a vital role for Manchester United in the 1963 FA Cup final, to help the club win against Leicester City at Wembley. On his demise, his family released a statement, "Dave Gaskell leaves behind not just a remarkable sporting legacy, but an enduring example of kindness, dedication, and humility. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him."
Rewind to Davis Gaskell's remarkable sporting legacy
Gaskell was called Busby Babe, making his United debut at 16 years and 19 days in October 1956. This club entry is a record in the United's history. He was the substitute in the Charity Shield at Manchester City's Maine Road. The move was quite surprising for him; he attended the game as a fan but was picked up by the crowd by first-team coach Bert Whalley. He borrowed his teammate's extra boots after senior goalie Ray Wood was injured.
Witnessing Gaskell's skill, Matt Busby promptly promoted him to the main team, and he made his Football League debut the following year. Fortunately, he was not a member of the travelling squad when the Munich air disaster occurred in 1958. In 1968, Gaskell left United to join Wigan Athletic, then joined Wrexham in 1969, concluding his career in South Africa and Kuwait.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has announced that it will pay respect to Gaskell where players will wear black armbands in the upcoming Sunday night's Premier League match at Fulham. The club, in its tribute to Gaskell, wrote, "Having finished his daytime duties as a part of United’s ground staff, Gaskell – who was the club’s fifth choice goalkeeper, aged just 16 years and 19 days, and less than four months into his Reds career – went along to watch the Reds in action against Manchester City in the Charity Shield that evening."
