David Gaskell, Manchester United record-breaker, dies aged 84

Manchester United’s record-breaking former goalkeeper David Gaskell, has died aged 84. Gaskell was just 16 years and 19 days old when he came on for United at Manchester City’s former stadium Maine Road, following an injury to first-choice keeper Ray Wood, in October 1956. He still holds the record for the youngest player to make their debut for the club.

The youngster went on to keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory as United won the Charity Shield.

According to United’s official website, his dramatic debut could have featured in Roy of the Rovers.

“Having finished his daytime duties as a part of United’s groundstaff, 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 them in action against Manchester City in the Charity Shield that evening. An early injury to starting stopper Ray Wood left United down to 10 men, until coach Bert Whalley grabbed Gaskell from the crowd, pulled together some kit, picked up a spare pair of teammate Colin Webster’s boots and threw the teenager back onto the field in Wood’s stead. Gaskell went on to turn in a man-of-the-match performance, keeping a clean sheet as the Reds won 1-0.”

Gaskell spent 11 years at Old Trafford with the highlight helping United win the FA Cup final 3-1 against Leicester at Wembley in 1963. He later played for both Wigan and Wrexham.

United said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of David Gaskell, our youngest-ever debutant and former goalkeeper. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.” On their website, the club added: “It was confirmed by the Gaskell family on Friday night that David had passed away at the age of 84.”

David Gaskell saves a shot from Fulham’s Dave Metchick in September 1964. Photograph: Evening Standard/Getty Images

A statement from the family read: “Dave was devoted to his beloved wife, Barbara, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. He was a proud father to his three daughters, Michelle, Lesley, and Nicola, and a loving grandfather to Joel, Emily, Eleanor, Ted, and Edith. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on through them.

“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.”