MANCHESTER UNITED were inspired to FA Cup glory after receiving a heartfelt message from a club security guard.
The Red Devils clinched a shock 2-1 win over local rivals Manchester City last week to win the FA Cup in spectacular style.
Having been deemed the underdog ahead of the Wembley clash, Erik ten Hag was desperate to fire his team up.
The Dutchman set out to find unorthodox methods to inspire his team – and he sought help from a member of security.
According to The Athletic, Ten Hag walked around the club’s Carrington training base with the officer in the run-up to the match, asking about her experiences and background.
After being moved by her story, the United boss asked his colleague to record a video for the squad.
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In the clip, the staff member opened up about her experiences in the military.
She revealed that one day in Afghanistan, she became trapped in a village with her platoon.
Nobody thought they had a chance of escaping, but after working together some managed to fight their way out.
However, a small number of her colleagues died in the attempt.
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The overarching message of the story emphasised the importance of teamwork and sticking together.
Many players were inspired by the video.
The security officer in question was guarding the Royal Box at Wembley during the match and, when the United stars found out, they invited her down to the dressing room at full-time to say thank you.
Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo fired United to the FA Cup win.
However, Ten Hag’s future at the club is still in doubt.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk