Man Utd superfan Ian Stirling who fought Glazers dies as tributes paid
Manchester United supporters have paid tribute to superfan Ian Stirling after his death, calling him a kind-hearted and "truly great man" who will be sorely missed.
The lifelong Red took up the role of independent supporter liaison officer with the Manchester United Supporters Trust having joined in 2003, after attending his first match in 1973.
The passing of Stirling, who had appeared on Sky Sports and Good Morning Britain supporting fan causes and speaking out against the Glazer family's ownership of the club, led to heartfelt tributes from United supporters who valued his selfless contribution to fan causes.
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A tweet posted by Andy Mitten of United We Stand, read: "Devastating news about Ian Stirling. He did so much for Manchester United fans for so long.
"A stalwart, he was central to safe standing returning to Old Trafford. Trusted, respected, credible, approachable, J Stand and better liked than he ever knew. Rest in peace, Ian."
A second tribute read: "Massive heart, lovely bloke. I was fortunate to be able to call him a mate. A very sad day."
MUST said earlier this month Ian had been suffering from an illness, announcing he would be stepping down from the role in which he did so much good for fans.
A third follower wrote: "Had the privilege of being able to go to United with Ian since I first got a season ticket back in 2011. One of the most genuine, kind hearted and nicest people I have ever met. He’ll be greatly missed."
The Football Supporters' Association added: "Awful news. RIP Ian."
Another message read: "Absolutely devastating news this. Ian a real United stalwart and always available to help fans when they had questions. Reached out to him a few times on here and he was always responsive and very helpful. Sad night"
Stirling's profile on the Manchester United Supporters Trust read: "He strongly believes that football clubs should benefit the community and fans rather than a corporate asset of distant owners who are only motivated by profit. He would like to see a day when football fans are valued for the contribution they make to the club in terms of passion and pride and not for how much money can be squeezed out of them."
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