​Marcus Rashford To Receive Honorary Doctorate From Manchester University

At just 22, this makes him the youngest person ever to receive an honorary degree from the university.

Rashford, who will receive the doctorate later this summer, said: "It's a proud day for myself and my family.

"When you look at the great names that have been awarded this doctorate in the past, it's humbling.

"We still have a long way to go in the fight to combat child poverty in this country but receiving recognition from your city means we are heading in the right direction and that means a lot

"Thank you to The University of Manchester."

He had penned an emotional open letter to 650 MPs, drawing on his own experiences as a youngster to stress the importance of free school meals, food banks and soup kitchens.

The footballing star is also an active supporter of a charity called FareShare, which is the UK's longest running food redistribution organisation.

Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, Manchester University's President and Vice-Chancellor, said: "Marcus is an extraordinary young man with an extraordinary talent and drive that stretches well beyond the football field.

"His work for charity and his high-profile campaign will not only help countless young people across our own city, but across the entire country.

"Our university has social responsibility at its core and this sense of civic pride and duty is something we are proud to share with Marcus.

"That is why the University is delighted to make Marcus our youngest ever recipient of an honorary degree."

A spokesperson from Manchester United added: "Marcus is an exceptional player and an exceptional person. His work with FareShare and his focus on child poverty make him richly deserving of this tremendous honour and everyone at Manchester United is incredibly proud of him."