English sports stars support Manchester’s World Cup bid

Sports stars Andrew Flintoff and Darren Campbell are supporting Manchester to be a host city for England's 2018 FIFA World Cup bid.

Andrew Flintoff, former England cricket team captain, said: "Manchester would be a fantastic base for any team in the 2018 World Cup. I know from my own experience of playing and living there that the Northwest people love their sport and whoever was based there would enjoy the experience. It has many world class venues and I have certainly enjoyed watching Manchester City on my trips to the City of Manchester Stadium."

Darren Campbell, former Olympic champion, has also pledged his support. He said: "I believe Manchester should be a host city. Why? Because we have four great football clubs; Bolton, Wigan, Manchester City and the mighty red themselves, Manchester United.

"And let's not forget 2002 when we put on a great show with the Commonwealth Games. People around the world are still talking about how successful a games it was. We even managed to keep the rain away until the last day!"

To pledge your own support for Manchester - and also have the chance of winning a pair of VIP match day tickets, please visit www.manchesterworldsport.com