Best Man United XI of all time

Goalkeeper: Peter Schmeichel

A formidable presence between the sticks, Schmeichel kept a remarkable 22 clean sheets in the 1992-1993 season to lead his side to their first top division trophy in 26 years. A momentous feat that would mark just the beginning of United's league success. Schmeichel is widely considered as one of the greatest goalkeepers to ever grace the game and one of a select few players to have represented both sides in the Manchester derby.

Defender: Gary Neville

The right-back played a round 400 league games for United and is the epitome of a one-club man. A member of the famous 'Class of 92,' the former captain never got bored of Premier League glory, lifting the trophy eight times during his illustrious career. Neville will always be remembered for his tenacious attitude, intelligent overlapping, and top-class punditry.

Defender: Rio Ferdinand

Once the world's most expensive defender, Ferdinand joined United from Leeds for a record £30 million. The centre-back won the Premier League in his debut season and would go on to earn an impressive 13 more trophies with the club. Ferdinand was the first of a new breed of 'ball playing' centre-backs and was often praised for his distribution and technical ability.

Defender: Steve Bruce

Bruce experienced his glory days at Old Trafford where he played between 1987 and 1996. In over 400 appearances in red, he netted 51 times - an astounding record for a defender. Often hailed for his no-nonsense attitude, Bruce was the rock at the heart of United's defence for many years.

Defender: Denis Irwin

Sir Alex Ferguson has said Denis Irwin was his 'greatest ever signing.' The Republic of Ireland left-back played 529 games for United but his brilliance was often understated. On his day, Irwin's dynamic style of play meant that nobody would get past him on his flank.

Midfielder: David Beckham

Regarded as one of the best set-piece takers to ever set foot on a football pitch, the Englishman's accuracy was to the finest degree. Becks scored some breath-taking goals during his time under Alex Ferguson, netting directly from a corner kick and even scoring from his own half. The famous No. 7 honed his talent in Manchester before a 'Galáctico' transfer to Real Madrid.

Midfielder: Sir Bobby Charlton

Bobby Charlton is a name that all United fans hold close to their heart. The midfielder was a crucial member of England's World Cup winning squad in 1966 - the year in which he also won a coveted Ballon d'Or. After Ryan Giggs, Charlton has made the second most appearances with the Red Devils, playing a remarkable 758 times. In his time, Charlton was seen as a 'complete player' whose skills amazed week in week out.

Midfielder: Paul Scholes

A key figure of United's 90s dominance, Scholesy was a midfield maestro. Despite his poor disciplinary record, he is seen as one of the most talented midfielders in Premier League history and all you have to do is look at a compilation of the Englishman's scorching volleys to understand why. With a playing career spanning 20 years, Scholes never left the fans disappointed.

Forward: Eric Cantona

The Frenchman was a controversial character to say the least, but he often let his performances on the pitch do the talking. Given his tricky footwork, hard man attitude and audacious chips, Alex Ferguson famously said that Cantona 'illuminated' Old Trafford whenever he set foot on the pitch. Cantona played for United for four seasons and won four consecutive Premier League titles. A true icon of the legendary No. 7 shirt.

Forward: George Best

George Best was a football genius - a dazzling dribbler - a wizard of the wing. The Belfast born forward scored 181 goals for United between 1963 and 1974 and won the Ballon d'Or in 1968. With his tricky footwork and unrivalled speed, the Northern Irishman would toy with even the strongest defences. He was simply unstoppable on his day. Nowadays, Best is a role model for aspiring wingers across the globe.

Forward: Wayne Rooney

Scorer of 'that' Manchester derby bicycle kick, Wayne Rooney is a United legend. The Englishman signed for Ferguson's side from Everton as a teenager and would go on to make club history. To this day, Rooney is United's record goalscorer, having found the net 253 times in 559 games across all competitions. During his time at Old Trafford, he was a quick, versatile forward who would come up with the goods when his side needed him most. Rooney will be remembered fondly by United fans as their most prolific striker ever.

Honourable mentions

Ryan Giggs, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roy Keane, David De Gea.