Around 2,000 fans are heading to Munich to pay their respects on Tuesday and a commemorative service is taking place at Old Trafford, where a minute's silence will be held ahead of the Premier League match against Huddersfield this weekend.

Mourinho wore a Munich pin badge in the press conference previewing that game and spoke eloquently about the disaster 60 years on.

"I was telling before MUTV that this is something that is part of my life, or part of my football culture, before I become Manchester United manager," the Portuguese said.

"And why? Because it was such a tragedy that stayed in these last 60 years.

"So as Manchester United manager obviously it means much more but I think it belongs to every sportsman as one of the biggest tragedies.

"At the same time, it is a crucial point also in Manchester United's history - the reaction, the strength, the union after that situation.

"And I think tomorrow is an amazing day to show the respect, to show the passion for the club, the respect for them, the respect for their families and I think it is a day to play well.

"I think it is a day to bring happiness, to bring joy, for people to be together, enjoying their colours, and at the same time with showing all the respect for the people and their families."

Players will wear black armbands tomorrow, when fans will congregate outside the Munich plaque from 1.30pm for an annual event consisting of readings, prayers and a rendition of 'the Flowers of Manchester'.

Supporters will receive a commemorative pack containing a limited-edition book about the disaster, as well as a complimentary copy of the matchday programme.

- PA