World Bodies Celebrate Alfredo Di Stefano

One of world soccer's finest ever exponents, the incomparable Alfredo Di Stefano, received a special president's award from UEFA president Michel Platini this weekend at a heartfelt ceremony of appreciation at Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

The 81 year old former Real Madrid great still lives in the Spanish city and was seemingly almost overcome with the emotion of the award from his former employers and the sport's governing bodies but in a characteristic display of dry wit used the power of self deprecating laughter to show his personal appreciation at receiving such lofty accolades from the great and the good of European football

It may be 48 years since Alfredo Di Stefano won the last of his five back to back European Cups with the great Real Madrid side of the 1950s and 1960s but time hasn't dimmed the affection held for the man regarded by many as the greatest all round footballer of all time.

"In the names written in gold in the history of our sport there is a special place for Alfredo Di Stefano," UEFA president Platini said during the award ceremony, "The history of football simply can't be imagined without you. It is the first award I will present as UEFA president and only the greats will receive this honour. A sincere thank you for all you have done for our marvellous sport."

Showing his class even at his advanced age, Di Stefano dedicated the award to his former team-mates and all those who battled to compete in the support because he, in his own words, was always a team player. Well done Alfredo, it's good to see the true greats from football's real golden age not being forgotten by those who are now benefiting from their trailblazing performances and attitudes.