FOOTBALL is always a strong topic in Manchester.
Whether you're a United fan or a City fan, no matter where your allegiance lies, it can be wholly agreed that the city loves a kickabout.
"Manchester's passion for football eclipses almost any other city in the world, so it seems right we have made the shortlist for the 'City of Football'"
So it's fitting that the city is bidding to be the country's first ever 'City of Football'.
Manchester is one of the shortlisted cities for the 'City of Football' title
The title, awarded by Sport England, comes with £1.6 million of National Lottery funding to run a two-year programme aimed at encouraging more people to play the game, particularly those aged 14 to 25.
22 cities applied for the funding, with Manchester facing off against Nottingham and Portsmouth to take the title.
The winning city is to be announced at the end of September.
Footballer Andy Cole backs the bidManchester's bid is being carefully managed by the newly formed Manchester Football Consortium, led by the City Council and including national and local football partners. Also part of the team are organisations from various sectors including marketing, PR, transport, media, culture, music, sport, business, digital and education.
The Manchester Football Consortium is seeking public support and backing for the city's bid, and to come forth with their opinions on how to transform the grass roots game in Manchester.
"Manchester's passion for football eclipses almost any other city in the world, so it seems right we have made the shortlist for the 'City of Football'," said Councillor Rosa Battle, the executive council member for culture and leisure.
"Our love for the beautiful game is evident in our two internationally renowned football clubs, the National Football Museum and the unparalleled enthusiasm of local fans.
"The 'City of Football' is about encouraging more people to actually get out and play, so I'd ask everyone to let us know what they think is needed and help us create an innovative and transformational plan."
Follow Manchester's bid on Twitter at @Manchester_COF or tweet using '#BackOurBid'
Follow Niamh Spence on Twitter at @missnspence
