A 19-YEAR-OLD girl who is fighting cancer got a boost from the biggest stars in football when Manchester United players paid her a bedside visit.

Leanne Parker rubbed shoulders with Cristiano Ronaldo and Ryan Giggs, when they called in at the Christie Hospital.

Leanne is fighting leukaemia, and is currently being treated in the teenage unit for a blood clot and an infection in her arm.

The Bolton Wanderers fan, who lives Fairmount Avenue, Breightmet, said: “Even though I am a Wanderers fan it was great to meet them.

“It brightened up my day and I was really excited. There was a good atmosphere on the ward, it was very lively and everyone was happy.

“Ronaldo was my favourite, he was really nice and very good looking.”

Ronaldo and Giggs were joined by Anderson, Nani and Manucho. Leanne, a former Canon Slade School pupil, received presents, including Manchester United merchandise and chocolate.

She was diagnosed with leukaemia in May and spent six weeks at the Christie Hospital before becoming an outpatient, making regular visits for treatment.

The teenager, who has a twin sister called Lyndsey and two brothers, Joseph, aged 21, and Jordan, aged 14, has been back in hospital for three weeks and does not know when she will be home.

Her mother Bernadette Bates said: “She was really excited about the players visiting and jumped out of bed when they arrived.

“It’s definitely given her a boost, it was fantastic. It’s brilliant the players took the time out to do this.”

It is hoped Leanne, who is studying her A Levels at Bury College, will make a full recovery, and be able to stay mainly at home from Easter.

Dr Mike Dennis, consultant haematologist at The Christie, said: “We’re very pleased with how Leanne has responded.

“She’s in remission now, and we hope the treatment will enable to beat her leukaemia for good. Her progress in overcoming her illness has been fantastic.”

David Wright, ward manager, said: “All our patients look forward to the United players visiting and this year was no exception.

“It is tough for them being in hospital at this time of year, so it’s a very welcome visit and certainly put some smiles on their faces.”