Manchester United legend in Chicago this week

Manchester United legend Gary Neville will tour Chicago on Thursday and Friday in advance of the Chicago Fire vs. Manchester United match at Soldier Field on July 23.

Fans will have the opportunity to meet Neville and pose with the English Premier League Trophy at the Globe Pub (1934 W. Irving Park Rd.) on Friday from 2:30—5 p.m., according to Chicago Fire officials. The former United captain and eight-time English Premier League Champion will arrive at the Globe at 2:30 p.m. to sign autographs and meet supporters.

While in Chicago, Neville will throw out the first pitch at the White Sox games against Oakland at U.S. Cellular Field at 7:10 p.m. Thursday. Before tossing out the first pitch, the former England right back will meet with local media to discuss the upcoming Manchester United summer tour, including the 2011 World Football Challenge and the MLS All-Star Game.

Neville first joined Manchester United in 1992 and emerged as part of Sir Alex Ferguson’s youth-driven side of the 1990s. A member of Fergie’s Fledglings, Neville earned a spot as the first choice right back in 1995 and played an integral role in United’s success until his retirement last February. While with the storied English club, Neville captured eight English Premier League trophies, three FA Cups, two European Cups, an Intercontinental Cup, a FIFA Club World Cup and one League Cup in 400 appearances for the Red Devils. He also made 85 appearances for England from 1995-2007.

The Chicago Fire — Manchester United match is included in the Fire’s full-season ticket plan as Bonus Game Two. Fans also can purchase a ticket by calling 1-888-MLS-FIRE (657-3473), or through Chicago-Fire.com or Ticketmaster.com.