MANAGER OF THE YEAR 2008

MATT BUSBY

With a name like Matt Busby, the manager of Hinckley Sunday League team Enderby Social FC was always going to be a success. But even with such an illustrious name, he couldn't have expected to win a national award after just one season. Following in the footsteps of his namesake, the legendary Sir Matt Busby who famously managed Manchester United in the 1940s, 50s, 60s and 70s - his management skills have been rewarded with the title of Carling's Pub Football Manager of the Year 2008.

Matt, 25, from Whetstone, Leicester, has managed Enderby Social FC for just one season but has already made a difference to the side who ply their trade in the Hinckley and District Sunday League. Matt, who was nominated for the award by pal and team mate Richard Edwards, said: "To win the award is an absolute honour - I'd like to thank the team and everyone associated with the club for their support and contribution."

On his namesake Sir Matt Busby, Matt said: "My dad supported Manchester United and obviously with my surname there was no other name to call me! I've got his autobiography and have taken my inspiration from the great man himself. I study his management skills and hope that the lads think that my approach is calm and positive too."

Richard Edwards, who nominated Matt for the award and who has known him since their playschool days, said: "He has earned the respect as a manager from all of us. I can't speak more highly of this man as a manager and a mate - there are only two Matt Busbys!"

On Enderby's hopes for next season, Matt said: "Last season we won the Les Moore Trophy, came third in the League, and got promoted to Division Two. We've got three or four new players coming in this season, so I'll need to make a few decisions on the team but we're a passionate bunch of lads who will make that step up."

Congratulations to Matt from all at Carling. We'll be announcing our other Pub Football Awards winners shortly.