Gary Neville has given a rather blunt answer to his fellow former professional footballer, John Terry who asked why a crop of nine English football icons had never received an MBE.
This year’s New Year honours list saw sports stars such as Emma Raducanu, Tom Daley, Jason and Laura Kenny all honoured for their contribution to British sport.
While few would contend the awards that were dished out to numerous sports stars, former Chelsea and England captain John Terry had an alternative take on the annual honours list.
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Tweeting in the early hours of New Years Day, Terry asked: “Can someone explain why Gary Neville , Phil Neville, Paul Scholes , Ashley Cole, Nicky Butt, Rio Ferdinand, Sol Campbell, Jamie Carragher, Wayne Rooney, have never been honoured for their services to football. We are talking the BEST of the BEST EVER?”
Can someone explain why Gary Neville , Phil Neville, Paul Scholes , Ashley Cole, Nicky Butt, Rio Ferdinand, Sol Campbell, Jamie Carragher, Wayne Rooney, have never been honoured for their services to football. We are talking the BEST of the BEST EVER? 🏆 pic.twitter.com/BWs6QZv5nE
— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) January 1, 2022
While some football fans would debate some of the names on this, there is no arguing with the success that many of these players had during their careers, which was what Terry was trying to convey in his original message.
Won everything for Man Utd and played at the top their whole careers. 🏆🏆🏆
— John Terry (@JohnTerry26) January 1, 2022
Longevity and domination in world football.
Gary Neville, who is never shy of voicing his opinion, responded to Terry’s question and let’s just say, we doubt he would accept an MBE even if he was given one.
The ex-Manchester United defender wrote: “I don’t think I’m anywhere near but I’d rather have a most improved player award for a Sunday team than an award off this lot.”
I don’t think I’m anywhere near but I’d rather have a most improved player award for a sunday team than an award off this lot 👍 https://t.co/rEUHduZ5GQ
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) January 1, 2022
Despite his protests, Terry clearly believed that Neville deserves an MBE and replied by saying: “Best right back of our generation Gaz , dominated world football and won everything for Man Utd. Played at the very top all your career for club and country. I’m seeing people being given MBE’s and OBE’s for a flash in the pan.”
He also added that he thought David Beckham deserved a knighthood to add to his OBE.
Amongst the five people associated with football to be named on this year’s list are Chelsea Women manager Emma Hayes and England assistant manager Steve Holland.
