Back in 2008 and 2009 two closer to home heroes were the toast of the town when they attended dinners hosted by Larne branch of the Manchester United United Supporters’ Club.
Former Northern Ireland and Old Trafford star Sammy McIlroy and team-mate and ex-Republic of Ireland striker Frank Stapleton were guests of honour in 2009 and 2008 respectively.
Here are photos from both occasions and a number from 2007 to bring back happy memories.
9. Fan Zone
Enjoying the Manchester United Supporters Club dinner in the Larne Masonic Centre in 2009. Photo: Peter Rippon
10. Fan Zone
John McCullough gets the signature of Sammy McIlroy at the 2009 Manchester United Supporters' Club dinner in the Larne Masonic Centre. Sammy was manager at the 2002 Northern Ireland V Cyprus game at which John's son Johnathan was a ballboy. Having already got the signatures of all the players the manager's signature was the final name to complete a fully signed programme from the Windsor Park match. Photo: Peter Rippon
11. Fan Zone
Pictured at the Larne Manchester United Supporters' Club dinner in 2009 are (from left): Jackie and Gary Neill, Josanne and Ross Thompson, Beverly and Raymond Hylands and Margaret and Peter McFaul Photo: Peter Rippon
12. Fan Zone
Paddy Rea, Linda Purvis and Steven Smyth at the 2007 function for fans of the Red Devils. Photo: Peter Rippon