Manchester United is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our former player, Terrence “Tony” Young, at 71. Tony was a talented footballer and a proud Manchester lad who left a lasting legacy at the club.
Born in Urmston, just a short distance from Old Trafford, Tony joined Manchester United in July 1968. Before joining the club, he made a name for himself playing for Manchester and Lancashire Schools.
In July 1969, he turned professional and quickly proved his potential. He made his senior debut in August 1970 at 17 in a match against West Ham United. With this debut, he became the 82nd graduate out of 251 players who have come through Manchester United’s ranks to date.
Tony’s versatility was one of his strongest qualities. He could play both as a right-back and a right-winger, making him a valuable asset to the team. Throughout his career at Manchester United, he made 97 appearances, establishing himself as a reliable player.
The 1972/73 season marked a breakthrough for him, as he played an impressive 34 games and became a regular in the first team.
One of the highlights of Tony’s career was during the 1974/75 season, when he was part of Tommy Docherty’s squad that secured promotion back to the First Division. This was a significant achievement for the club, and Tony played an important role in this success.
In 1976, Tony left Manchester United to join Charlton Athletic. He later moved on to play for York City, where he had the opportunity to work with former Manchester United manager Wilf McGuinness. His journey through English football demonstrated his commitment and adaptability, earning him respect wherever he played.
Reflecting on Tony’s career and personality, former teammate Sammy McIlroy paid a heartfelt tribute. He said:
“It’s sad to hear of his passing. I remember Tony had a massive reputation as a winger when he first joined the club, and unlike some, he seemed to thrive under the pressure. He was a proper Manchester lad – hard! He trained the way he played as well.
“Tony was a quiet personality. He broke in as a right-winger but showed his versatility and team ethic when he played a few games at right-back. Tony was the sort of character every group of players need, and the sort of willing player every manager loves.”
Tony’s dedication to the game, his work ethic, and his quiet determination left a lasting impression on his teammates and managers.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Tony Young’s family and friends during this difficult time. His contributions to Manchester United will always be remembered, and he will remain a cherished part of the club’s history.