THE PRIEST WHO SAID NO TO UNITED

FEW PEOPLE turn down the chance to sign for Manchester United and have no regrets over their decision.

- BY DAVID MCDONNELL

But retired priest Father John Williams did just that, turning his back on a career playing on the pitch for a life preaching in the pulpit.

Now 90, Fr John - who has maintained close links with United despite rejecting the chance to play for them - has revealed his extraordinary story.

At Manchester school St Bede's with Matt Busby’s son, Sandy, Fr John was a gifted player who was coached by former United skipper Johnny Carey.

He captained an England boys team, scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 win over Scotland and a glittering career as a professional beckoned, alongside the likes of Bobby Charlton.