In season 1973-74, Manchester United were noticeably struggling defensively. The manager, Tommy Docherty was under pressure in the media to bring in reinforcements. What he did confounded most people. He signed Jimmy Greenhoff, a forward, moved left back Stewart Houston to centre back and gave a debut to 19-year old Arthur Albiston at left back. It was without doubt a risky strategy, but one that was to pay handsome dividends over the forthcoming seasons.

After signing apprenticeship terms for United in 1972, Albiston had waited two years for his first team debut, a 1-0 home victory over Manchester City in the League Cup. Few could have predicted then that Albiston would go on to play for United for a further 14 years playing for four different managers in the process.

With a total of 485 appearances and 7 goals, he is currently 11th on the list of player appearances for United. During his time with the Red Devils, he helped them win the Second Division title in 1974-75, two Charity Shields and most notably the FA Cup in 1977, 1983 and 1985.

In August 1988, he joined West Bromwich Albion where he played 47 times scoring 2 goals. Further spells followed at Dundee, Chesterfield, Chester, Molde (Norway) and Ayr United, before he concluded his playing career in non-league football.

Although he never established himself as a regular for Scotland, he made 14 appearances including a match in the 1986 World Cup against Uruguay.

After retiring from playing, he briefly managed Droylsden and was a junior coach at Manchester United between 2000 and 2004.

He now works regularly for MUTV.

See Arthur as part of the Manchester United Legends here at Emley on April 5th. Buy your tickets online here, in person at The Wentworth (opposite the football club) or phone 01484 506940