Gary Neville given Queen’s University Belfast honorary degree

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 Uniter 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.

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.

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 relation ship 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.