Keane, O'Shea take place in 'legends' list

John O’Shea, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Rio Ferdinand, Tim Howard and Cristiano Ronaldo are among a clutch of new entries into the top all-time Old Trafford heroes.

In the first such poll for three years, conducted on behalf of the official Manchester United magazine released later this week, Roy Keane is named at number three, up four places from the last poll.

At the top of the chart there was little change, with Eric Cantona just holding off the challenge of George Best to retain the ‘number one’ tag.

Departed England skipper David Beckham and legendary midfielder Duncan Edwards drop out of the top 10.

Van Nistelrooy and Paul Scholes enter the elite.

“It’s a fantastic topic of discussion for United fans, with a wide range of opinion on who makes up the top 100,” said Manchester United magazine editor Sarah Shaddick.

“I suppose it’s only natural that supporters from different generations see certain players as more influential than others but most have an excellent knowledge of the United’s history and are aware of the contribution made to the club by key individuals.

“It is obviously a very subjective view but I think most people would recognise what kind of an impact Eric Cantona had on the club when he signed from Leeds in 1992.

“The most important point though is that polls like this remind supporters just how many brilliant players Manchester United have had over the years.”

Top 10

1 Eric Cantona (1992-97). Appearances 191. Goals 88.

2 George Best (63-74). Appearances 474. Goals 180.

3 Roy Keane (93-). Appearances 431. Goals 49.

4 Ryan Giggs (91- ). Appearances 592. Goals 124.

5 Ruud van Nistelrooy (01-). Appearances 146. Goals 110.

6 Sir Bobby Charlton (56-73). Appearances 754. Goals 247.

7 Peter Schmeichel (91-99). Appearances 401. Goals 1.

8 Denis Law (62-73). Appearances 399. Goals 236.

9 Bryan Robson (81-94). Appearances 470. Goals 103.

10 Paul Scholes (94-). Appearances 417. Goals 115.