UNICEF UK Ambassador and former Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has today revealed his pride in his fellow UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and former player, David Beckham's dedicated work in support of UNICEF and children in danger across the globe.
Speaking in a new UNICEF short film, captured after November’s star-studded Match for Children at Old Trafford, which raised vital funds for UNICEF’s work globally, Ferguson said:
“I’ve been a UNICEF Ambassador since 2002, but my involvement with UNICEF started with Manchester United. In 1999, the club felt that we should use our standing to support UNICEF’s work for children around the world. Even back then, I could see how interested and affected David Beckham was by what he saw with UNICEF. Now 15 years later, to see how David continues to support UNICEF, as an Ambassador and through his 7 Fund, makes me very proud.”
Ferguson, who returned to Old Trafford to manage a Great Britain and Ireland XI, captained by Beckham, to a 3-1 win over a Rest of the World team led by Luis Figo and managed by Carlo Ancelotti, added:
“These last few years have been incredibly difficult for children around the world, and UNICEF has never been under greater pressure. David’s 7 Fund for UNICEF is a real commitment and I know what a real difference it will make to lives of children around the world.”
Earlier this year Beckham launched 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund, making a personal commitment to use his voice, influence and connections to raise vital funds and rally for lasting change for children.
The Match For Children was the final match of an incredible journey that saw Beckham play seven matches across seven continents for a documentary about grassroots football that will be broadcast on the BBC this Christmas.
To find out more about 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund visit 7.org. To donate, text SEVEN to 70111 to donate £3
