FOOTBALL legends Bryan Robson and Mike Summerbee have launched Manchester's bid to become a World Cup host city.

Manchester hopes to be the venue for a semi-final, quarter final and group games should England be chosen to host the world's greatest football tournament in 2018 or 2022.

It is competing against 15 other cities for the honour and with two world class stadiums and clubs it presents a strong case.

And council boss Richard Leese dismissed fears the violence that marred last year's Uefa Cup Final, which saw police in running street battles against Rangers fans, could influence selectors at the Football Association.

Former Manchester United and England captain Bryan Robson OBE said: "As a player and a fan, nothing gets you excited like the World Cup.

"To host one in Manchester would be amazing.

"We have some of the most passionate fans anywhere in the world and you would struggle to find a more welcoming city.

"It's impossible to think of an English World Cup without games in one of the most famous footballing cities in the world."

Manchester's bid has now been submitted to the FA, with Manchester United, City, Manchester, Salford and Trafford Council, Marketing Manchester and GMPTE working together on the document.

A delegation from the FA will visit Manchester next week to inspect facilities and possible fanzones.


Quote - Hosting the world cup here would be incredible, very exciting. Every sporting event that has been put on has been a success.
Sir Richard Leese

Sir Richard Leese, council leader, highlighted the city's track record of hosting major international sporting events, such as the Commonwealth Games and Euro '96, as well as its tourism and transport infrastructure.

He does not believe the Uefa Cup Final problems will affect the bid. Sir Richard said: "If anything the city showed last year its resilience in a situation in football that no other city has ever experienced.

"Since then we've hosted major international sporting events, including football events. We did our own inquiry and clearly we have learnt the lessons from that experience. As far as Uefa was concerned the final was a successful event.

"Euro '96 is probably more comparable and provided a fantastic atmosphere, despite of course the IRA bomb going off in the middle of it."

Munich, a host city in 2006, saw an economic benefit of £80m. City and England legend Mike Summerbee said: "Manchester is an incredibly friendly place.

"It's a northern city and the people are very welcoming. They support every sport.

"Hosting the world cup here would be incredible, very exciting. Every sporting event that has been put on has been a success."

Register your support for the bid at www.manchesterworldsport.com