Firstly, Frank became a world-renowned striker with Arsenal. He made his debut in 1975 against Stoke City and struck up a potent strike partnership with Malcolm Macdonald and was their top scorer for three seasons in succession. He made 300 appearances for the Gunners scoring 108 goals.

Secondly, in the 1979 FA Cup Final, Frank scored in a 3-2 victory for Arsenal over United. This was one of three appearances that he made for Arsenal in FA Cup Finals.

Thirdly, he cost United £900,000 to finally bring him to Old Trafford in 1981. At the time it was the second highest transfer fee United had paid.

Over the next six seasons, Stapleton more than repaid that financial outlay as he made 288 appearances and scored 78 goals for the Red Devils. His goal in their FA Cup Final win over Brighton made him the first player to score for two different clubs in FA Cup Finals. He also appeared in United’s 1-0 FA Cup Final win over Everton in 1985.

Upon leaving United in 1987, Frank had a short spell at Ajax before returning to England to appear for Derby, Blackburn, Aldershot, Huddersfield Town, Bradford City (player-manager) and Brighton.

A proud Irishman, Frank insisted on an “international release clause” in all his contracts. This enabled him to appear for the Republic of Ireland 71 times, scoring 20 goals. He was their captain at the 1988 Euro Finals and also played in the 1990 World Cup in Italy.

Since retiring from playing he managed MLS side New England Revolution in 1996 and had two spells coaching at Bolton Wanderers. He has also appeared regularly on MUTV.

See Frank as part of the Manchester United Legends here at Emley on April 5th. Buy your tickets online here, in person at The Wentworth (opposite the football club) or phone 01484 506940