Marcus Rashford wrapped presents and the men’s team also sent video messages to patients at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Francis House Children’s Hospice and The Christie.

They sent United-themed shirts, scarves, hats and cuddly toys.

David De Gea was pictured filling a Christmas gift bag, with Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek also helping to spread festive joy.

Meanwhile the women’s team visited patients in all three hospitals.

They also delivered presents, as well as posing for photos and signing autographs for those facing a challenging Christmas.

United club captain Harry Maguire said: “Supporting those in our local community is one of the most important things that we do as players and staff at Manchester United, especially around Christmas time.

11The women’s team signed merch for patients, their families, and staffCredit: Manchester United11United support local hospitals every ChristmasCredit: Manchester United11The women’s team helped spread festive cheer in personCredit: Manchester United11The men’s team sent signed merchandiseCredit: Manchester United

“For us, sending well wishes and packing gifts for the hospitals, putting smiles on people’s faces is really important.”

While Rashford said: “It’s obviously something that as a team we enjoy doing, supporting the children and the staff at the hospitals.

“To put a smile on young people’s faces and seeing them happy gives us a massive boost over Christmas.”

Manchester United Women head coach Marc Skinner was joined by captain Katie Zelem plus the likes of Alessia Russo and Millie Turner for the special visits.

Zelem said: “It’s been amazing for us to put a smile on the children’s faces; it’s something that we really look forward to every year, that we can come and spread our energy and love to the children who hopefully will be getting better soon.

“We know how big of a club Manchester United is, but at the heart of it is always the community.”

11United-themed cuddly toys, scarves, hats and shirts were packed into goody bagsCredit: Manchester United11Bruno Fernandes helped fill up the goody bags with giftsCredit: Manchester United