BACK IN TIME

Last updated : 13 March 2006 By editor

From Geoff Thomas fund raising web site:

‘The Manchester United legends will join their original team members including Gary Pallister, Steve Bruce and Brian McClair to play in a re-enactment of the classic 1990 FA Cup Final, Crystal Palace v Manchester United.


A former England and Crystal Palace footballer, Thomas has pledged all match proceeds to the leukaemia charities which helped to save his life when diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia only 3½ years ago. He is now entering his second year of remission and has dedicated the next four years to fundraising until given the all-clear from the disease.


Thomas, who is still recovering from intensive chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation, will lead out Crystal Palace with a line-up that includes Ian Wright, Mark Bright, Nigel Martyn, Alan Pardew and guest, Iain Dowie.


Sir Alex Ferguson said:


“The 1990 FA Cup Final was a battle royal, but nothing like the truly challenging ordeal Geoff Thomas has faced with his health in recent years. I am just so delighted and impressed with the way he has handled his personal crisis and can only wish him well in his efforts to raise money for leukaemia charities. Geoff might not have finished on the winning side at Wembley but for me he is certainly a winner in what really matters, the game of life.”


Thomas said:


“I’m really thrilled to have had such great support from both clubs and so many famous individuals. Even 16 years on, I’m sure the match will be fiercely competitive with the likes of Mark Hughes, Ian Wright and Bryan Robson taking part. It’s my ambition to sell out Selhurst Park and raise money for leukaemia sufferers not as fortunate as me.”


The match is in partnership with hosts, Crystal Palace FC, who have given Thomas their full support for his appeal. It will take place at Selhurst Park Stadium on Thursday 6 April, kick-off 7.45pm.’