CHRISTMAS came early for Coventry key worker and Manchester United superfan Shaun Leahy when he was surprised by Andy Cole and had his home transformed into Old Trafford.
The iconic Old Trafford stadium was projected onto the walls of his home and Shaun and his family got to have Christmas dinner virtually with the former England international whilst watching the Red Devils’ match against Sheffield United on Thursday night.
Shaun also had his own personal dug-out and cheering crowds through the hospitality experience organised by the club’s partner Laybuy.
This Christmas has been the first one in the club’s 142-year history that United fans will be unable to attend the festive matches.
The activity forms part of Laybuy’s ‘Six Weeks of Christmas’ campaign, which offered fans unrivalled at-home club experiences.
Shaun – who has spent much of the year self-isolating due to an underlying health condition – won the opportunity to experience the club’s first ever at-home Christmas hospitality experience after Manchester United and Laybuy learned of his struggles with mental health over the past year and wanted to treat him to the ultimate pick-me-up.
Keyworker, Shaun said he was grateful to Andy, Laybuy and Manchester United.
“I’ve been a lifelong fan of Manchester United– there’s nowhere in the world that I’d rather be than at the club on match day – I’ve really missed it.
“I’ve been working from home since the first lockdown began in March and isolating due to underlying health conditions, so having my home transformed into the best club in the world has absolutely made my year.
“It’s been the boost I really needed.”
Manchester United Ambassador Cole added: “It was a pleasure to be able to surprise Shaun and hopefully he had an unforgettable experience.
“It has been a strange year and like many football fans, I have really missed watching live football.
“As a player, the support of the fans and the noise of the crowds in the stands is what motivates you.
“There is nothing like it.”
Visit Laybuy.com/UK for more on Laybuy.
