'Forever grateful': David Beckham reveals touching promise from late Man United receptionist

David Beckham has paid an emotional tribute to late Manchester United receptionist Kath Phipps and revealed the touching promise she made to her parents.

United players past and present took to social media to mourn the loss of Phipps, who passed away on Thursday at age 85.

beckham He has since shed light on the impact Phipps had on his life and shared an anecdote that underlined why she was such a beloved figure to all who passed through Old Trafford and Carrington.

“Forever in our hearts,” Beckham wrote in instagram.

“The first and last face I always saw was Kath sitting in the reception at Old Trafford waiting to give me my tickets for the match. She was the heartbeat of Manchester United, everyone knew who Kath was and everyone adored her.

“I moved to Manchester when I was 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad: 'I'll look after your son, don't worry.'

“And from that first day to the last day I spent with her, that's exactly what she did.

“Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile when we walk through those doors. We love you.”

The caption accompanied a post on Beckham's Instagram where he held Phipps' hand.

Sandra Beckham, David's mother, commented on her son's post: “Very true and he certainly did what he promised. Forever grateful.”

Beckham spent time in Tottenham's youth ranks before joining his boyhood side Manchester United in July 1991.

The 49-year-old made just 400 appearances for the Red Devils before sealing a high-profile move to real Madrid in 2003.

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Although he made stops in Major League Soccer, Serie A and Ligue 1 in the following years, he never forgot Phipps' impact.

Phipps' career at United began in 1968 when he worked as a telephone operator.

He later became a receptionist at the Carrington club and also greeted senior figures in the Old Trafford directors' box on match days.

“Kath was a one-woman institution, whose memory will be cherished by all at the club who had the privilege of knowing her,” United wrote in a lengthy tribute.

“Last year she said, 'I can't imagine doing anything else.' Well, we can't imagine the place without her.”

The tastes of Wayne Rooney and David de Gea joined Beckham in paying tribute to Phipps.

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Rooney said: “The heart and soul of Manchester United. Everything the club stands for. A legend who will be greatly missed. Thanks for the memories, Kathy. Thoughts with family and friends.”

De Gea wrote: “What a wonderful woman! Thank you for taking care of everyone!”