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Gary Neville gets Queen's honorary degree

News imageQUB Gary Neville is smiling as he stands in between a series of tall red brick columns. He is holding an honorary degree and is wearing university graduation robes.QUB
The former England international received his degree at a ceremony on Wednesday

One of English football's most decorated players has received an honorary degree from Queen's University Belfast.

Former Manchester United captain and England international Gary Neville was given an honorary doctorate for his contribution to sport, business, education and philanthropy.

The Premier League hall of fame inductee, now a Sky Sports pundit, made more than 600 appearances for Manchester United over a trophy-laden playing career.

Mr Neville, who received the award at a ceremony on Tuesday, said the honorary degree from the Belfast university "is a tremendous honour".

Queens President and Vice-Chancellor Prof Ian Greer said the footballer's on the pitch achievements are matched "by his commitment to creating opportunities for young people through education, skills and enterprise".

"Gary embodies values that speak directly to Queen's mission," Prof Greer added.

News imagePA Media Manchester United's David Beckham and Gary Neville celebrate at the end of the game in 1999, both have hugely emotive facial expression and are wearing the red and white kit of the club they played for. A number of other players can be seen on the pitch which is seen in the backgroundPA Media
Neville was one of a number of players, including David Beckham, who were part of Manchester United's most successful side

Since retiring, England's most capped right-back has built an extensive business portfolio including a number of hotels and is co owner of Salford City FC.

He has also been a driving force University Academy 92 (UA92) in Manchester which aims to give students from disadvantaged backgrounds access to higher education.

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Mr Neville said his work in education is "something I feel hugely passionate about".

"I have seen first-hand the impact Queen's has on its students and on the wider community," he said, adding he had first built a relationship with Queen's when attending the Declan Kelly Leadership Lecture Series earlier this year.

"I look forward to continuing that relationship in the years ahead," Mr Neville said.

As a player Neville won a plethora of major honours including eight Premier League titles, three FA Cups and two Champions League trophies over a 19-year career.

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