In the Edwardian era, Manchester was the workshop of the world and its leading football club, Manchester United, was one of the best in the land. Unfortunately, its stadium at Bank Street did not reflect its aspirations. So the directors took the brave decision to build a spectacular new stadium to reflect the club's, and the city's, status. On 19 February 1910, Old Trafford was open for action. Ian Marshall tells the astonishing story of the hundred years that followed. From early triumph, through inter-war depression, Old Trafford saw it all. But when the ground was twice bombed during the Second World War, its entire future was in question. However, under the inspirational managership of Matt Busby, both the team and the ground were rebuilt, and a new era of dominance was ushered in in the 1950s, only for United to be once again struck down by Munich. Speaking to players, employees and fans from across the years, as well as original research into the United archives, Marshall explains how Old Trafford has remained central not just to United but to the fortunes of an entire city. Old Traffordis the definitive story of an iconic venue.

Manchester United might not have won the league title during the 1980s, but they triumphed in two FA Cup finals with a team blessed with grit, flair and some remarkable perms. Andy Mitten has tracked down 11 of the key names from this fondly remembered era to hear their stories - stories of working class boys living the dream of playing for Britain's biggest and most glamorous club, playing hard - on and off the pitch.

This fascinating selection of photographs traces some of the many ways in which Stretford & Old Trafford have changed and developed over the last century.

There have been doubts raised about certain features of Alec Watson’s (1844-1920) life story. Firstly, about the date and place of his birth, investigation into the former confirmed the date generally accepted, but enquiries into the latter threw up a number of problems. The author’s enquiries suggest a place of birth not even mentioned before. Secondly, there were certainly doubts about the legality of Watson’s bowling action: was he a ‘chucker’? The author considers the arguments and sources about this and suggests what he hopes is a fair conclusion. There were no doubts about Watson’s success; the facts and figures contained herein speak for themselves. Nor is there any doubt about his successful career on the fringes of cricket: as groundsman at Old Trafford; as a cricket coach to clubs and schools; and as a progressive sports outfitter with three shops in central Manchester and a big house on its outskirts. Truly a Life in Cricket!

Sports Ticket is the ultimate guide to the premier British and selected international sporting events for 2005, and plenty more besides. and venue, this book will make a visit to the action hassle free and more fun. showpieces in sport as well as enhancing the experience of regular events. Comprehensive guides include pointers, parking tips and travel information. If you want to make a holiday out of your sporting trip, the book provides tips on other local attractions, city information and recommendations for accommodation, wining and dining. World sporting action is also covered. 2005 features top European drama with home nations football teams in World Cup qualifying matches and far flung adventures with the British Lions in New Zealand. is an in-depth appendix to cover all the nagging pieces of information so often forgotten.