Davis, who is 70 and lives in Cheadle, has completed 55 years of services to the game, initially as a player before managing and volunteering at the club. He has also served as chairman of the Cheshire & Manchester League and Manchester Jewish Soccer League.

A letter from the FA highlighted Davis’s “influential role in the development of SMSC, dedicated countless hours to Manchester Football Association and South Manchester to ensure the club’s legacy remains”.

Commenting on the award, Davis said: “It’s very nice to receive a trophy but I don’t do it for the accolades. I do it because I’ve enjoyed what I do for 55 years. I’ve made hundreds upon hundreds of friends through football.”

Manchester United supporter Davis was a key figure in helping South Manchester set up their sports centre at Heald Green in Gatley, Cheshire.