Marcus Rashford, 23, became the youngest person to ever receive one from the uni earlier this week
Manchester United revealed a new twist on their No10 kit by showing a jersey with the name printed as ‘Dr Rashford MBE’ on the seats at Old Trafford.
It’s the latest award given to fan favourite Rashford after he was made an MBE 12 months ago for his battle in extending free school meals during the coronavirus pandemic.
Accepting his award in front of Sir Alex Ferguson at the Theatre of Dreams, Rashford beamed: “To be here in the presence of a great such as Sir Alex, and those who have played a huge role in my journey to be where I am today, is special.
“I’m here to receive my Honorary Doctorate for my work around child poverty."
Manchester University's President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, said: “Marcus is an exceptional young man who continues to demonstrate a sense of community and generosity that goes well beyond his years.
“Our University also has social responsibility at its core, and we are extremely proud to share these values with Marcus.
"It really is an honour to finally present him with this well-deserved award on behalf of our institution.
“His ongoing charity work and high-profile campaigns not only help millions of people across the country, but inspire many more to try and make a difference themselves. Long may it continue.”
United’s Chief Operating Officer Collette Roche told the ceremony: “Marcus is an exceptional footballer and an exceptional person.
"He is a young man who embodies everything which this club stands for – he is humble, he is passionate and he is driven to succeed in everything he does.
“Those qualities have shone through in his work to champion the needs of young people, to tackle food poverty and to deliver real change which has helped thousands of families across the country when they needed it most.
“We are all so proud of you Marcus and it is wonderful for us all to be with you and your family this evening to see your efforts recognised.”
