Former Manchester United and England midfielder Neil Webb has been forced to sell treasured career memorabilia, including his first England shirt and cap, to boost his retirement fund. The 59-year-old, who once played under Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Robson, later worked as a postman in Reading.
Webb, who earned 26 caps for England and scored four goals, put his 1990 FA Cup winner's medal, 1992 League Cup winner's medal, and several England caps up for auction. In 2024, he listed his first England shirt and cap from 1987 with an asking price of £15,000.
Speaking about the sale, Webb said: "I'm turning 60 in July and it would be good if the shirt and cap goes to someone who will appreciate them. It will boost my retirement pot." He added that his generation earned good money but knew they would have to work after playing, contrasting with today's players who earn "incredulous wages".
Webb's financial reality became widely known after it emerged he had worked as a postman, reportedly earning around £220 per week. He reflected on his career, saying: "I played under Mr Clough, Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Robson, three of the best ever British managers."
His injury in 1989 inadvertently opened the door for Paul Gascoigne to secure a starting place in England's 1990 World Cup squad. Webb noted: "Fair play to Gazza. He always thanks me for getting injured."
