Man United season ticket holder – who spent 80 days in a coma in serious battle with Covid – lives out his lifelong dream by scoring at Old Trafford as part of club’s ‘Community Pitch Day’

Manchester United opened the doors to Old Trafford to fans this week, allowing a season ticket holder who spent 80 days in a coma to live out his dream on the hallowed turf.

Since the end of the season Old Trafford has played to a series of matches, including a media game with journalists, as well as games between fans and members of the community.

On Thursday night United’s ‘Community Pitch Day’ allowed one long-standing United fan, Steve Donoghue, to channel his heroes from yesteryear out on the Old Trafford pitch.

Donoghue, who has had a season ticket since 1967, spent 80 days in a coma back in 2021 after suffering badly with Covid-19 and so serious was his condition his family said goodbye to him twice before he miraculously pulled through to make a recovery.

‘Every Manchester United fan grows up dreaming to play on that pitch,’ Donoghue, who celebrated scoring by revealing an undershirt featuring his all-time favourite player Denis Law, said.

‘I remember coming to Old Trafford with my grandad in 1967 and I have been coming ever since to watch United. 

‘To walk out today with that red kit on, in front of my wife, was a bucket list moment and something I will never forget.’

He added: ‘It is fantastic that Manchester United make dreams like this come true and I will be forever grateful for this opportunity. 

‘I never thought I would be taking a penalty in front of the Stretford End after everything I went through – I am so grateful for all the support we have received.’

The community event, which was sponsored by Malaysian Airlines, saw Donoghue given another surprise as the airline gave him and his wife Elaine a paid-for trip to Langkawi.

Elaine Donoghue added: ‘Steve has been like a boy since he was invited to come down and play. To see his face today as he walked on the pitch was amazing, its magical.’

Steve Donoghue was one of a number of key figures in the community that got the chance to turn out on the Old Trafford turf.

Since the season ended, United have opened Old Trafford up for fans in the local community

Matches have given community figures and long-time supporters a chance to realise dreams

He runs the Stretford Enders Worldwide, a group of mostly older supporters who bond over their shared experiences watching on from the old Stretford End.

Donoghue organises the group’s annual charity fundraiser which raises funds for the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation and he also administers the Defenders of the Stretford End awards which gives prizes to supporters who have taken action to embody the spirit of the Community of the Stretford End.

Donoghue’s experience follows on from United opening their doors for a Fans Pitch Day last Monday which saw season ticket holders, members, fans groups and more get the chance to do battle.