Sir Matt Busby's son 'disgusted' at United TV film Published duration 24 April 2011

The son of Manchester United legend Sir Matt Busby has criticised a television drama about the Munich air disaster.

The film United tells the story of the aftermath of the 1958 crash which claimed the lives of 23 people, including eight of the team's players.

Sandy Busby said he was "disgusted" with the portrayal of his father, who was seriously injured in the crash.

A BBC spokesman said the film, shown on BBC Two on Sunday, was "a drama not a documentary".

The drama focuses on Manchester United coach Jimmy Murphy, played by David Tennant, and how he rebuilt the team while Sir Matt, played by Dougray Scott, recuperated from his injuries.

Mr Busby said: "I can't understand it, it's called United, all about the Busby Babes. You think they'd contact the Busby family wouldn't you?

"I was disgusted with the portrayal of my father. He had this camel coat on, and a fedora, and all through the film he was never seen in a tracksuit. He was known as probably the first tracksuit manager at that time. I was disgusted."

image copyright presser image caption Scott plays Matt Busby to Tennant's Jimmy Murphy in the drama

He said there were some terrible "stupid accusations" in the 90-minute film, and some omissions.

"Why didn't they include other players that died and were injured in the crash? If I was one of their family I would be very upset.

"There was about eight players never mentioned. They never mentioned Tom Curry, who was a trainer at the time. He was the trainer in the dressing room, he was like a second dad to the lads."

Mr Busby said he had spoken to the film-makers over his concerns and that he thought it was "very poorly done."

A BBC spokesman said: "It was a dramatic choice to focus on the stories of Jimmy Murphy and Bobby Charlton but the same story could have been told in many ways as all are equally important.

"The film was researched using biographies, testimonies, documentaries, personal accounts, first-hand interviews and Manchester United FC Museum.

"The story of the Busby Babes is of huge social and cultural significance in this country and this film is a respectful and fitting portrayal of the spirit of the club and community as they fought to overcome this tragedy.