The full team, including Paul Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and David de Gea, made dreams come true at the Aon Training Complex for fans who suffer from serious and life-limiting illnesses. Alexis Sanchez also attended his first Dream Day since joining the Reds in January this year.

The heart-warming event takes place twice a season with supporters travelling from across the UK to meet their footballing heroes and watch first team training from the Jimmy Murphy Visitors’ Centre.

Chris Smalling, who has supported the Foundation and attended many Dream Days over his eight seasons with the club, said, “These are times where all the team can come together and put some smiles on faces. Anything we can do to lift spirits because they are having tough times, just spending the afternoon with them, can make a real difference.”

Fan favourite, Paul Pogba, added, “We have the wonderful chance here to give young people happiness and it is very important for us to see them smile. They’ve been telling me some nice things, talking about my hairstyles, doing some dabs; the kids are happy and we just have to think about them and be grateful.”

Amongst the group of 16 guests at the training ground today was 15-year-old Scott from Skipton, North Yorkshire, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. He was delighted to meet the team, especially his idol Pogba: “It’s like a dream come true, I never thought this would happen. I got to meet Pogba and he sat next to me and I asked him a few questions, like what hairstyle he’s going to have for the FA Cup final but I think it’s a secret! Today has boosted me and made me happier than I was and gives me something to take away and share with my friends and family.”

Ruth, nine, from Denton was also thrilled to be a part of the day: “I’m super excited to be here; Juan Mata just spoke to me and he’s really funny, and I’ve met lots more players too,” she said. “It’s made me feel happy and made me feel a lot better.”