M REVIE U 2020-2021 W fC

Pre-season Friendly Saturday 22nd August v BARROW FC VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1 Price: £2

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OFFICIAL FC UNITED OF MATCHDAY PROGRAMME FCUM REVIEW 2020-2021 THE FC UNITED PROGRAMME

endeavours – and I hope he’ll be back at Broadhurst Park for a visit before too long! PRE-SEASON LATEST Pre-season so far has certainly been a bit of a mixed bag. We got off to a winning start Today’s match will see a limited number against Eccleshill, before being brought down of volunteers in attendance following to earth with a bang at Thackley. I left the lads the FA’s statement this week that fans in no doubt that the performance there was not will now be able to start attending acceptable, even allowing for any mitigating games again. factors. Unfortunately, the decision was announced We were much better against Stockport Town too late to open the gates to supporters but – albeit still on the wrong end of the result – we are hoping to have a crowd of 600 for our before getting back to winning ways at next friendly against City of Liverpool Fulwood in midweek. on Saturday 5th September. We haven’t been helped by injuries to With situations changing on an almost daily Regan Linney and Dan Cockerline, which has basis, please keep an eye on the official certainly hampered our goalscoring ability. website and our official social media pages However, we’re hopeful that both players for any further updates regarding attendance should be back before too long. of future games, along with dates and times I’m also pleased to have been able to add for our pre-season fixtures. Neil Reynolds another excellent option up front, as we We would also like to state the the club is welcome Michael Fowler to the club on a not happy with the imposed restrictions at FC UNITED’S MANAGER TALKS IN THE BUILD-UP TO TODAY’S MATCH season-long loan from Fleetwood Town. our level, considering our capacity, and we I’ve known their chairman Andy Pilley for quite hope and aim to have as many fans back After what has been the strangest summer by the pandemic and resulting lockdown. a while, and I happened to bump into him inside Broadhurst Park as soon as possible. of my life – and I think that probably applies Over recent months, with the help of local (not literally, thankfully!) in a restaurant recently, Full match reports from all of our pre-season to everyone – it is absolutely fantastic to businesses, we’ve been able to support and this signing came about following our fixtures can be found on the official website, have the team back out on the pitch again hundreds of local residents. I think it’s conversation. whilst all home friendlies will be screened here at Broadhurst Park. something we should be incredibly proud of Michael is highly regarded by Fleetwood, live on FCUMTV. So make sure you tune in. It is obviously not the same without the fans, as a club, showing how rooted we are in our and I’d like to go on record to thank them for but I know just how much hard work is going community, and it’s all credit to Vinny and the trusting us with his development in the coming on to try and ensure that that is a reality again team of volunteers who have worked tirelessly months. soon, and we are all looking forward to having to make the initiative such a success. We welcome Barrow AFC as our first guests you all here cheering us on. Turning back to footballing matters, the big at Broadhurst Park this season. I think it goes Whilst last season came to an abrupt and news over the summer was obviously the without saying that we’ll be hoping to avoid a unfortunate end in March, there has still been departure of Tunde Owolabi, who signed repeat of the result at Holker Street in the a huge amount of work going on behind the professional terms with Scottish Premier FA Trophy game back in January! scenes. League side Hamilton Academical. Since then, they have gone on to seal a When we launched the No Drain No Game It’s obviously a huge loss to us after his well-deserved promotion back to the crowdfunder back in April, we had a lot of contribution last season, but I’m absolutely Football League after a 48-year absence. uncertainty about how well it would go, given delighted for him. To be able to play football It’s an exciting season ahead for them under the circumstances. However, we were all professionally is the dream for pretty much new manager , and we should be absolutely blown away by the response, and every lad at this level, and I’m very proud that in for a real test today. the pitch looks in fantastic nick following the our club has been able to play a part in helping A lot of work has been put in to making it work over the summer. him achieve that dream. possible, so for those who are able to watch it Off the pitch, the major piece of work going on He grabbed a goal for the reserves in today, I hope you enjoy the match on the live has been the Covid-19 Community Hub, which midweek, and I’m sure it won’t be too long stream. Most of all, I look forward to being able you may have seen featured in the press. before he’s a regular fixture in the first team. to welcome you all back here in person, when It was an idea that came about in March, as a I know that I speak on behalf of everyone at the we are safely able to do so. way to support local people who were hit hard club in wishing him all the best in his future Bring on United!

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SEASON TICKETS ACADEMY PLAYERS We’ve currently sold over A number of FC United’s 700 Season Tickets for the academy players have been Broadhurst News 2020-21 campaign, with selected by Neil Reynolds SUPPORTER APPEAL Reds being encouraged to to play in our first-team We would like to thank purchase theirs as soon as friendlies so far. supporters for staying away possible. Making the step up from our pre-season fixtures With likely restrictions have been goalkeepers so far, despite the obvious being in place when fans Josh Brooks and Lenny urge for many of us who are can return to grounds, a Fieldhouse, along with FC UNITED MANIFESTO desperate for a footballing lower capacity could mean a full-back Tyler Owen and Democratically agreed by the fix after an absence of number of fans missing out winger Sandro Da Costa club members (owners) in 2005: - The Board will be democratically almost five months. FSA FAN SURVEY • 77.2% say they will return on their matchday experience We wish all the players the elected by its members Restrictions remain in With news that clubs from the first game back. at Broadhurst Park in the greatest success for the - Decisions made by the place for fans attending could start arranging and • 18% expect to be back months ahead. future and hopefully look membership will be decided on games and we’d like to playing friendlies again after within the first three months. If that is the case then forward to seeing them a one-member, one-vote basis remind supporters about the a lengthy absence from the priority will be given to appear more in the first- - The club will develop strong importance of adhering to game, a poll was conducted • Of those coming straight Season Tickets holders once team squad during the links with the local community the rules until further notice. during the summer by the back... fans are allowed back inside coming campaign. and strive to be accessible to all, Reds boss Neil Reynolds Football Supporters’ • 71.9% say that being a fan the ground. So if you want More news on the first discriminating against none talked about the importance Association (FSA) asking is part of their identity. to avoid the possibility of team with an introduction - The club will endeavour to make admission prices as affordable of staying away, saying: “We supporters of the non- • 69.9% want to financially missing out then it would to our summer signings as possible, to as wide a need to ensure that safety league game about the support their local clubs and wise to invest now whilst appears further on in this constituency as possible measures are continually impact of Covid in relation businesses. also helping the club and edition. - The club encourage young and adhered to. The last thing to matchday traditions, and • 59.3% say their motivation Reno help to plan better local participation, playing and anyone wants is a further how the current crisis will for coming back is a desire financially for the coming NEW SHIRT ON SALE supporting, wherever possible delay to the football season affect the approach of fans for things to get back to campaign. The new FCUM home shirt - The Board will strive to avoid starting. With this in mind with regards to attending normal. Season Tickets, along with is now out and available for outright commercialism can I make a plea to all games in the near future. • 66.4% of those who are Ten Match Ticket Books, can supporters to order. - The club will remain a non-profit supporters that you follow Below we feature some delaying their return by at be ordered via the link on Based on the design for organisation the strict guidelines and stay of the feedback from least one month want to FCUM’s official website. Manchester United’s 1985 OWNERS: THE FANS away from the upcoming supporters of Northern see things managed safely FA Cup-winning top, the new Board Members: Adrian Seddon, friendlies until we are told clubs, before they come back. GAMES ON FCUMTV shirts can be ordered online Sam Mullock & Dennis Shannon Secretary: Viv Ware otherwise. “The fans are and how fans feel about • 42.3% want to see Covid-19 Today’s match, and all other via the Club Shop page on everything to this football matchgoing during these in society drop before they our official website and are Manager: Neil Reynolds home games thereafter, Assistant: Brian Richardson club and we all love the testing times. come back. priced at £39 for adults and will be screened live by our Coaches: David Chadwick & interaction and relationship • 27.6% don’t want to be in inhouse television channel, £25 juniors. Mike Faulkner we have built together. How- • Survey conducted July crowded spaces, as a result FCUMTV. GK coach: Paul Chapman ever, I doubt any of us could 2020 by FSA & Alliance of Covid-19. All pre-season home Physio: Olivia Smith deal with a further setback. I Leagues – 1,200+ NPL • 18.9% of fans delaying their fixtures will essentially be Kitman: James Deadman hope you all understand this responses. return have health concerns. free to watch but the club is Women’s team manager: difficult message. We can’t • 88.1% of fans trust their • 9.1% regularly attend with asking all supporters who Kamran Hussain Women’s secretary: Rob Fullen wait to see you all again very club to ensure the safety of someone who has health tune in to our matches to soon.” fans. concerns. Academy Manager: Tom Conroy please make a donation to Academy Secretary: Pete Moulds FC United. Operations Manager: Paul Smith FCUM Review is produced by – Editor & Design: David Bergin Keep an eye on the official Community Liaison Manager: Contributors: Karl Ladley, Phil Busby, Paul Hurst, Paul Hinson, Tim Browning, Craig Philips site and the FCUMTV page Vinny Thompson Thanks to: The FC subs, our matchday sellers, Peter Wharton, Pete Cranmer, Vinny and Viv for further details about our Matchday/Team Secretaries: Photos: Mark Lee, Sam Coates, Matt Wilkinson, Andy Barker, Mike Dean, Alicia Day upcoming televised games. Viv Ware & Paul Delamere

[email protected] 0161 769 2005 @FCUnitedMcr F.C United of Manchester @fcutdofmanc FCUM REVIEW 2020-2021 THE FC UNITED PROGRAMME half-time entertainment CROSSWORD CLUES GUESS Across WHO? 4) Popular keeper who spent most of last season at FC on loan from Nuneaton (7,7) 1 8) Leading appearance maker for FC of the FC UNITED current squad with 67 to the end of last CROSSWORD 2 PRINT season (7,7) 3 9) Popular loanee from Stockport who AT HOME 4 VERSION suffered a bad injury at Buxton last season (4,6) 10) Current FC United kit supplier (5) 12) Cultured midfielder who scored

5 6 FC United’s first League goal, at Leek, in

7 8 2005 (5,7) 13) Scored a hat-trick for FC in that final 9 game (see 3 down) (5,7) NAME THE GROUND 10 11 14) New FC United book by Jonathan 12 Allsopp released this summer (3,3,6)

Down 1) New goalkeeper for FC United, joining from Radcliffe during the summer (5,6) 2) Scored the dramatic 96th-minute equaliser in the last League game at Broadhurst Park before 13 lockdown, against Warrington (6,5) 3) Last season’s final game before lockdown was awa against — (5,7) QUESTION TIME... 5) Knocked FC out of last season’s FA Trophy before going on to win 1. Name the teams FC United played during promotion to the Football League (6) our first pre-season. 2. Who was our first number one? 14 6) FC United highly successful summer Crowdfunder to undertake vital pitch 3. Who scored the first ever FC United goal? by PHIL BUSBY repairs (2,5,2,4) 4. Name the team that beat us in the 7) Former FC youngster who won end-of-season, Supporters Direct Cup. 5. We enjoyed our first Euro away in May Barnsley’s Young Player of the Year 2006. Against who, at what ground and what award last season (6,6) was the score? 8) Former Everton and defender who joined the Reds in the summer from Colne (5,8)

All answers can be found at the foot of FCUM Review’s Stats Entertainment page

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on the pitch. I also like to think I can score a is vital for me. few goals as well; so an olden-day number “The connection with the fans looking from Welcome to FC United nine and there’s not many of those about the outside is amazing, the rapport the fans Introducing the newcomers at Broadhurst Park nowadays. have with the players is something that is “I played here last season when I was on really appetising for me so when I got the Summarising his summer recruitment, NATHAN BURKE loan at Bamber Bridge. It’s a massive club call from Brian I was buzzing. FCUM boss Neil Reynolds stated that: Midfielder Nathan Burke, with a massive fanbase.” “Reno couldn’t show me around Broad- “When [assistant] Brian [Richardson] who joins us after a very The loanee frontman, meanwhile, can’t wait hurst because of the situation so he sent me and I sat down and discussed signings, successful four years with to get back in action after a lengthy absence, a load of Youtube videos and I’d already seen we knew that we had retained a Bala Town, and prior to that saying: “I’m very excited to be honest as it’ll loads of them, looking at the atmosphere and great squad and so it was a case of nine years at Liverpool FC. be the first bit of football I’ve played in about thinking to myself ’Yeah, I fancy a bit of that, identifying key players for important The 24-year-old has got a reputation as a six months, obviously with the lockdown, it looks incredible’. positions, and that’s what we’ve done.” competitive player and with a strong which is a bit different to the other lads who “In terms of what to expect from me on the Here we reproduce extracts of the articles grounding in the game having come through have been back for a few weeks. But I’m pitch I’m a big lad at 6’4” but I’m mobile and which initially appeared on the official the academy system at a Premier League very excited to be playing against good a good mover, and I pride myself on scoring website welcoming our signings so far... club, and playing week in week out at a team opposition on Saturday. goals but I get the best out of people which qualified for the Europa League. And looking forward to today’s game after around me. OLLIE MARTIN Speaking exclusively to Ben Hughes of getting back to training, Fowler added: “I enjoy linking up with people and while Goalkeeper Ollie Martin, 24, FCUM Radio, Nathan was asked about his “It’s been good getting to know the lads, scoring goals is great, if you’re winning joins FC United following a favoured position and style of play: “I’m a especially before Saturday. We’ve worked on games and you’re contributing to the team two-year stint at Radcliffe, box to box central midfielder who can get a a few different styles for the game, so I know as a whole then that’s just as satisfying. where he clinched both goal but I also enjoy the nitty-gritty side of what my part will be.” I think I’ll get the best out of the people promotion and the Young Player the game, tackling and regaining possession around me and let’s go one better and win of the Year award in the 2018/19 season, and of the ball. DAN COCKERLINE the title this season.” has kept an impressive 33 out of 90 clean Nathan said: “Last season was the best Striker Dan Cockerline has Reno added: “He is a real presence and sheets in his time there. After being released season we had at Bala and were third when signed from AFC Liverpool he’s quick. People will look at his height and in mid-April by Radcliffe, he was a player that it ended prematurely. I played week in and having scored 22 times in 26 think he’s a target man or we’re looking for was of interest to many clubs. week out and to get a good run of games in appearances last term. a long ball option but that’s not the case. Neil Reynolds announced his signing live such a strong team was really good.” The 23-year-old, who has also He’s comfortable receiving the ball and going on FCUM Radio and he said: “We had a represented Sheffield United at youth level, in behind. vacancy for the No.1 shirt and I’m a big big MICHAEL FOWLER Barrow and Southport, said: “I’m buzzing “He’s football rather than money-driven and admirer of Ollie. I have been watching him The latest recruit to FCUM’s to sign for FC and just can’t wait to get start- he’s desperate to do well for FC. The key both playing against FC and going to their first-team squad is Fleetwood ed. I had a really good season with thing for him was going into a good dressing games and the thought of getting him to FC Town forward Michael Fowler, AFC Liverpool and I think a lot of that was room and he’ll get that here and the fans will United is really exciting. I got to talk to Ollie who has joined us on a down to me really enjoying my football. really take to him.” about an offer and it wasn’t the offer he was season-long loan. “The manager there, Chris Anderson, looking for but we sold him the club, and he The 19-year-old joined Fleetwood at the age was brilliant and just said to me go out and TRIALS & TRIBULATIONS came back to us and said he’d be delighted of 17, having started out with Sunderland’s express yourself and it was what I needed. Along with our new recruits, a number of to take the opportunity to join us. It’s been academy before completing a scholarship The performances followed and it was a trialists have appeared for FC United during a long-term ambition for him so we’ve done with Premier League club Burnley. great time. our early pre-season friendlies hoping to a virtual handshake over the phone, and I’m After appearing in the club’s Development “I got a call off Brian Richardson and my impress Neil Reynolds and the coaching delighted to secure a new No.1 who I’m sure Squad, he made a loan move to Guiseley first question was about the dressing room, staff. will be a fans favourite next season” towards the end of the 2018-19 campaign I know everyone first thinks about the fans Finally, 23-year-old defender Matty Ollie was delighted to be presented with and then Reno’s former club Bamber Bridge and how amazing they are, as well as the Makinson, who joined us during the summer the opportunity, adding:”Very happy to be in September of last year. players and the infrastructure of the club. having previously been with Colne, has now coming to FC United of Manchester. I loved When asked about his style of play, Fowler But, for me, it was a question of ’Am I left the club. playing at Broadhurst Park and cannot wait stated: “I’m normally used as a target man coming into the right dressing room? Is it to get involved with the new season. Thanks in the sense of I like to get a hold of the ball a good set of lads?’ And Brian and Reno Thanks to Ben Hughes at FCUM Radio to everyone for the warm welcome.” and show and show my physical presence said they’re a really close set of lads which and Tim Browning for the quotes

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old hero’s new side crashing to a 5-1 defeat against ’s champions. FCUM REVIEW Next up for the club based just south of With the uncertainty “Truly humbled” Glasgow was a home game against Ross surrounding the County that saw Hamilton fall behind in possibility of fans the 75th minute. Tunde was handed his being allowed into our professional debut with just five minutes pre-season friendlies, remaining but was unable to save his side we have decided to from a 1-0, whilst in the Accies’ next match provisionally issue last weekend against St Mirren, our old a programme online number 9 didn’t make the bench in a second only to kick-off our successive 1-0 home defeat. home friendly fixtures. However, in a last-minute reserve-team Hoping to keep that friendly arranged between Hamilton and matchgoing tradition alive even for those local rivals Motherwell during the week, unable to attend games at Broadhurst Park, Tunde was on the mark in a convincing 6-0 we’ve faced an uncertain future in many victory. regards about how we can approach this This afternoon, it’s derby day again for season, and the feasibility of priniting a Brian Rice’s side who will make the short programme in the early stages of this trip to Motherwell’s Fir Park with Tunde no campaign. doubt desperate to get another first-team Whilst most at FC United were sad words for FC United as he said: “Since my It is certainly our intention to reintroduce opportunity to prove what he is capable of. to see Tunde Owolabi leave our club first day, the love and support I received has a printed version of the magazine as soon There will be many Reds keeping a keen for side been absolutely special. I’ve not had that as possible but in the meantime we hope eye on the team who have become escape Hamilton Academical during the anywhere I have been. It’s a special club full as many fans can support the programme artists in the Scottish Premier League over summer, we were also delighted for of special, special people. I want to say a online, and help us to produce a quality the last few years, eager to see how Tunde Tunde who saw his dream of becoming massive thank you for supporting me and magazine in the process. and his new team get on over the course a professional come to fruition after loving me. I won’t ever forget how it feels For this game, and our forthcoming home of another season fighting relegation and just a season at Broadhurst Park. representing this club. I am truly humbled. friendlies, we’ll be releasing an online hoping that our former favourite will prove Having initially spent a spell in the FCUM “I am sad to leave FC United, a place that programme on the day of each match for as much a success with his new club as he academy as a teeneger, the Belgian-born felt like home long before last season. I will fans to download, and are asking readers to was with our own. Tunde rejoined the club 12 months ago – miss you all and I hope I leave with all your send a donation via the link provided on the All the best, Tunde, and thanks for the after a period playing in Malta – and became love and support. I will always be an FC official website. memories. an instant crowd favourite. United player and supporter even though In the meantime, you will have noticed a The prolific frontman’s debut arrived in my future lies in Scotland. I will continue to number of changes to the programme as we a 4-2 victory at home to Morpeth Town on follow the team’s progress and support them aim to produce as much fresh material over 31st August 2019, with Tunde celebrating by during the upcoming season. Thank you the course of the coming season, and netting a brace, and he went on to score a once again and God bless you all.” welcome any ideas or contributions you magnificent total of 35 goals in just 41 first- The recently-turned 25-year-old initially might have for the magazine. team appearances for FC United throughout spent a time on trial with Hamilton during We’ve reintroduced some old favourites, the course of last season. the summer and appeared in a number of like Meet The Owners, and are building a Included in that impressive haul were the club’s pre-season friendlies before nice collection of fan-owned club features for three hat-tricks (including two in his final the Scottish Premier side completed a future mags, along with a number of articles couple of appearances for our club), six permanent deal for the FCUM favourite – on clubs we’ve played on Euro aways since doubles and a stunning four strikes in a 7-0 who has been handed the number 36 shirt. our formation, and how they’ve been getting thumping of Buxton last October – meaning With the top-flight campaign already under on since we met, plus much more. Tunde ran away with the Northern Premier way north of the border, Tunde was an If you would like to get involved with League’s top scorer award last term. unused substitute for the Accies’ opening- contirbuting to FCUM Review in any way, Upon departing Broadhurst Park for an day match at Celtic’s 60,000-capacity or have any ideas, then please send us a undisclosed fee, Tunde had nothing but kind Parkhead at the start of August, with our message via the club office email address.

[email protected] 0161 769 2005 @FCUnitedMcr F.C United of Manchester @fcutdofmanc FCUM REVIEW 2020-2021 THE FC UNITED PROGRAMME Our Covid Heroes

Although there’s been no football taking place at Broadhurst Park for almost six months, our ground has remained an active and valued part of the community since the outbreak of Covid 19. As many reading this might have seen, the space under the SMRE has been turned into an extensive food hub, with a dedicated team of FCUM volunteers committing countless hours in ensuring that the vulnerable and those struggling over recent times have been supplied with some much-needed household essentials. We will feature a detailed ‘Thank You’ to everybody who has made the food hub such a respected and valued asset to the community in a forthcoming issue. In the meantime, here’s some pictures showing what’s been going on behind the scenes in recent months...

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in the third tier. Represented Portugal from SANCIDINO SILVA U16s to U19s. Originally from Guinea-Bissau, the winger/ Whatever happened to forward initially joined Benfica as a PAWEL DAWIDOWICZ youngster in 2007 and made the B team by A Polish defender and one of the more 2012. He left the club in the summer of 2014 successful products of this Benfica B team. but returned early into 2015. A year later, After spending much of his youth career though, Silva was on the move again with a with Lechia Gdansk in Poland, Dawidowicz permanent switch to lower-league Arouca was signed by the Portuguese giants in and then spent the 2017-18 season with 2014 and spent five years with the club, second division Leixoes. A move to though represented the B side only. Switzerland and two years with Lausanne Unable to break into the first team, he spent then followed but unable to establish a seasons on loan with Bochum in Germany first-team place, Silva joined Armenian side and Italian sides Palermo and Verona. In FC Ararat Yerevan in February of this year. 2019 his move to the latter was made per- Represented Portugal from U16s to U19s. manent with Dawidowiz now making almost 50 appearances for the Serie A club. He has CLESIO BAUQUE also earned one full international cap - in The tall frontman from Mozambique was November 2015 against the Czech Repub- spotted by Benfica playing for his local club lic - after appearing for Poland from U18s to Ferroviario in 2012 and signed for Benfica in The Benfica B team from Friday 29th May 2015 U21s. January the following year. He went straight into the B team and then enjoyed some time MIGUEL SANTOS Sovetov Samara a year ago but endured JOAO CARVALHO on loan with Harrisburg City Islanders in Despite establishing himself as a regular relegation from the Russian top flight last The young midfielder joined Benfica aged the USA in 2014. A year later, and following keeper in Benfica’s B team, the youth season. Also represented his country from just eight and broke into the B team in 2015. an appearance at Broadhurst, Bauque was product left in 2016 and was signed by Port U17 to U21 level. After a spell on loan at fellow top-flight side drafted into the Benfica first-team and made Vale boss and compatriot Bruno Riveiro in Vitoria Setubal during the latter half of the his solitary appearance acting as an 2016. A two-year deal was signed but after MARCOS VALENTE 2016-17 campaign which proved a huge emergency right-back against Tondela at the just two appearances in the Football League The Portuguese centre-back was signed by success, Carvalho returned to Benfica end of October 2015. Departing the Stadium Trophy during his first year, Santos joined Benfica from his local club Penafiel in 2013 where he made his first-team debut at the of Light in 2016, the forward has since had Dutch club Fortuna Sittard halfway through and played in the B team for two seasons. start of the following season, and played two seasons with Greek top-flight side the 2178-18 campaign. There he helped the For the start of 2015-16, he joined fellow another half-dozen games thereafter. Panetolikos and then a campaign at both club win promotion to the top-flight top-flight side Aves on loan for the season In June 2018, the promising 21-year-old Istanbulspor in the Turkish second division Eredivisie division as runners-up before and a year later made a permanent switch joined Nottingham Forest for a club record signing a four-year contract with Astra to Vitoria Guimaraes. After a season in £13million and has been a mainstay of the #Giurgiu in Romania in the summer of 2018. their B team, he has since made a number Championship club’s midfield ever since. Spent last season on loan with Astra’s of appearances for the first team and also league rivals Academia Clinceni. spent periods on loan with Pacos Ferreira ELBIO ALVAREZ and Estoril. Born in Montevideo, Alvaraz started with VITALI LYSTSOV Penerol before becoming one of two The Russian defender began his career with ALEXANDRE ALFAIATE Uruguayan players to join Benfica in Lokomotiv Moscow before being snapped A youth product at the , January 2015, for £720,000. But just a sea- up by Portuguese side Uniao Leiria for the Alfaiate played for three seasons for the B son and a half was spent in the club’s 2014-15 season and spending the latter half team between 2013 and 2017. Yet following B team before a return to Uruguay came of that campaign on loan with Benfica’s B a spell on loan with Academia he joined in August 2016, with the midfielder joining team. After joining Benfica permanently, Belgian Second Division side Tubize for Fenix’s B side on a free and eventually he failed to make a first-team appearance 2017-18. A year later he moved to Lusitanos progressing to their first team. A move to and following a stint on loan with Tondela, in Andorra and spent last season back home Uruguay FC followed in 2018, where he has he returned to his homeland with Krylia with the similarly-named Lusitano, who play remained since.

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and Azerbaijani top-flight side Gabala. so still only 23 years of age, plenty is still This season, Bauque has remained in expected of the Portuguese forward who Azerbaijan but joined Baku in July. He has started his football journey with local club Stats Entertainment represented Mozambique on 35 occasions Almodovar and then Ferreiras before Benfica since 2011 and scored five times. came calling in 2008. By 2015, Goncalves with FCUM Radio’s PAUL HINSON had progressed to the B team and made an OLIVER SARKIC instant impression, netting his first goal The 2019-20 season ended up as Undoubtedly the most intriguing story of just five days before scoring again at unfinished business for FCUM. those who represented Benfica’s B team at Broadhurst. In August 2017 he made his Despite the curtailment after 32 League Broadhurst Park on 29th May 2015 is that of first-team debut in a victory against Braga games the Reds racked up 73 goals and 53 Oliver Sarkic - who was born in Grimsby and and then in October that year played in a 1-0 points, totals not reached in four seasons of raised in Belgium! The attacking midfielder/ Champions League home defeat to participation. forward started out with the Anderlecht Manchester United. The 2018-19 season Tunde Owolabi scored 28 league goals, academy where he played between 2006 and brought a loan spell at Nottingham Forest the most since Tom Greaves notched 34 in 2014 before making the move to Portugal’s whilst last term was spent on loan with 2013-14. Owolabi’s overall tally of 35 was biggest club. He spent three years playing Portuguese top-flight side Famalicao. on course to beat the club record of 45 by for Benfica B and in that time served time Goncalves has also represented his Stuart Rudd in 2006-07. on loan at Fafo in the Portuguese regional country from U15s to U21s, where he has Eight home league wins in 15 games was a leagues, and then Leeds United where he netted eight times during 13 appearances in massive improvement on one in 21 games in appeared for the U23s. That move to Elland the latter age group. 2018-19. During the campaign, FCUM racked For those dreading the visit of the Road was made permanent in 2018 but, after up their 300th home league game, 700th Cumbrians, our heaviest loss in a friendly failing to make a first-team appearance and SUBS home league goal, 300th away league game, has been by a four-goal margin. Rhyl a stint with Spanish third-tier side Barakaldo, Finally, of the substitutes, full-back YURI 100th away league defeat and 600th league thumped us 5-1 at Belle Vue in July 2016. Sarkic joined Burton Albion for the 2019-20 RIBEIRO joined Nottingham Forest in July game. Thackley won 4-0 at Dennyfield earlier this campaign and this summer penned a 2019; wide man HILDEBERTO PEREIRA had The visit of Barrow instantly brings back month. At home our biggest defeat was 4-1 two-year deal with . He has also loan spells with Forest and Northampton the horror of the FA Trophy clash in January against AFC Fylde at Broadhurst Park in represented Montenegro from U17s to U21s. Town, along with Legia Warsaw, and is now – the heaviest defeat in our club’s history. July 2019. This was four days after we back in Portugal with top-flight Setubal; The Bluebirds were formed in 1901 and defeated Bangor 1876 12-1 – our biggest DIOGO GONCALVES defender RICARDO CARVALHO plays for have yet to face Manchester United in a ever pre-season victory. The game’s match winner when FC United Villarubia in the Spanish third tier; midfielder competitive game, though the Reds did win Barrow are the 10th club FCUM have faced met Benfica five years ago and the only GONCALO RODRIGUES is with Famalicao; 1-0 at Holker Street with a Roy Keane goal in in friendlies who have Football League player still on the books at the Stadium of and back-up keeper THIERRY GRACA December 1993. status. Bury played us in July 2006 and July Light. Born on the 6th February in 1997, and represents Cypriot side Doxa Katokopias. It took FCUM just five years to play 2009, Exeter City in July 2012, Blackburn Barrow in a competitive match, the FA Cup Rovers in August 2012, AFC Wimbledon tie at in October 2010 when and Bolton Wanderers in July 2013 and July Carlos Roca scored the winner. The 2017, Rochdale in July 2016 and July 2018, attendance of 3,263 was the highest for Fleetwood Town in August 2017 and Oldham a home cup tie, and only beaten since by Athletic in July 2018. the visit of Brighton and Hove Albion two We lost all 12 of these games but have months later. beaten League opposition in the FA Cup.

HALF-TIME ENTERTAINMENT ANSWERS GUESS WHO? Lee Neville. NAME THE GROUND: Holt House, Colne. QUESTION TIME: 1 Leigh RMI, AFC Wimbledon, Celtic and Flixton. 2 Barrie George. 3 Steve Torpey. 4 AFC Telford United. 5 Drew 4-4 with Lokomotive Leipzig at the Bruno-Plache Stadion. CROSSWORD: Across: 4) CAMERONBELFORD, 8) MICHAELDONOHUE, 9) ALEXCURRAN, 10) ERREA, 12) STEVESPENCER, 13) TUNDEOWOLABI, 14) THEREDTHREAD. Down: 1) OLLIEMARTIN, 2) CURTISJONES, 3) SOUTHSHIELDS, 5) BARROW, 6) NODRAINNOGAME, 7) ELLIOTSIMOES, 8) MATTYMAKINSON.

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starting up in earnest. And that was all before Best FC moment? the game started. I’m going to pick Barrow away in the FA Trophy The game itself always passed in a blur but it last season. meet the owners was always the colours and noise, the surges I have never, in over 40 years of watching on the terraces and the emotions of the football, experienced worse conditions than the SIMON HOWARTH supporters as much as the football itself that I first half of that game. How did you get involved with FC and how fell in love with. I was stood behind the goal and the rain was did you first hear about the club? driving into our faces so hard that as you sang I had already decided to not renew my Where do you hope FC will be in five years? your mouth filled up with rain water! Season Ticket for United because of anger at Given everything that is happening with Covid, But I’ve mentioned it before and the singing the Glazers takeover and I saw an article in I think a lot of football clubs will be in trouble and support from the fans before the game in the MEN on the proposal and it sounded and the first priority for FC is to ensure that we the pub, outside the ground and then all the interesting. aren’t in trouble. But I have every confidence way through the 90 minutes in the appalling Along with my best mate Jim, we went along that will be the case. conditions whilst getting stuffed was something to the meeting at the Central Hall on Oldham Then we should be looking to build. to behold. It made me realise why I am so proud Street in July 2005. My Dad was a Methodist We know this league is difficult to get out of but to be an FC Fan. Minister at the Central Hall during the 80s so I’d we should be looking at getting out of it in the spent a lot of time there... but this was a very next two or three years and then stabilising in Favourite player? different sort of religious experience! Jeans or socks on first? National League North. Michael Potts and his never-say-die attitude. We then went along to the first home game Never thought of it before. Socks, I think! against Padiham, fell in love with FC and, What song gets you on the Favourite past player? 15 years later, we are still regular match goers. What was your first memory of attending a dance floor? Jerome Wright. Had the talent to play at a much football match? I love a bit of ska and Madness. higher level in my opinion, but glad we saw so Sum up in a sentence what FC United means It’s probably a jumble of memories of sights One Step Beyond is guaranteed much of him for FC. to you: and sound and smells from when I was 7 in the to get me dancing. Not sure my FC United are my team and I feel at home 1976-77 season. knees thank me for it though. Favourite flag? when I am at the match: the antidote to the My dad was born and brought up in Moston as I Don’t Have To modern commercial excesses of Premier a United fan but moved around with his job. We Do you do any volunteer work for the club? Sell My Soul. League Football. lived in Stoke and he used to take me regularly If so, tell us about how you help. to watch Stoke City and then five or six times a I’ve not got involved in any serious way other Best and worst What does the club do best? season we’d travel up the M6 to Manchester. than as a supporter yet. But now that my kids terrace songs Match days and supporting the team. Home and Going to United was what I enjoyed most. are grown up I intend to get more involved. over the years? away there is little or no stick dished out to the We’d set off early, bring our lunch, stop off for to Along with a couple of mates we sponsor a Best: ‘I am FC Fan’ which, along with ‘I don’t team and everyone is actively and passionately buy some sweets, then we’d join the queue for couple of matches a season and pretend we care about Rio’, summed up in the early days involved in supporting the team through thick seats in K Stand which were pay at the gate. are big-time Charlies – and I can thoroughly why I had definitely made the correct decision and thin. Standing in the driving rain at Barrow There was always an anxious wait as to recommend it as an excellent experience. to become an FC fan. Worst: ‘Oh Manchester is singing for 90 minutes whilst getting stuffed is whether you would get in with the queue Wonderful’. Not a fan. not ‘normal’ behaviour for most teams. stretching back for what seemed like miles to a Where do you stand/sit at Broadhurst Park? seven-year-old and the stewards always used I stand on the SMRE to the right of the goal Do you collect anything daft or what you What could the club do better? to count back and then draw a cut-off after behind a barrier to rest my pint on. consider to be normal? That sense of family and belonging and that we which people wouldn’t get in. One time the cut- I’ve got quite a large collection of Cacti and are all United as equal co-owners. Following the off was immediately behind us so we only just Funniest thing seen at the match? Succulents, if that counts. well documented difficulties we went through a got in...very tense. It was at a Man United home game, Ralph Milne couple of seasons ago, it was noticeable that We had two hours to kick-off and so would was playing and a high ball was played over the If Reno was coming round for tea, what the sense of togetherness was much greater sit in our seats and eat our packed lunch. top for him to run on to. would you cook him? last season and it is so important that this In my memory, our seats were always behind Ralph got his head down and ran. Only he Roast dinner is my speciality and Reno strikes continues. So continuing the transparency and the goal. I loved watching the ground fill, had run in completely the wrong direction at full me as a man who would like a roast and a communication and building on that is key for the teams being named, them coming out to pace and only realised when he looked up to couple of glasses of red wine, so roast lamb me. warm up and then the songs and chanting see the ball 20 yards to his left. and all the trimmings.

[email protected] 0161 769 2005 @FCUnitedMcr F.C United of Manchester @fcutdofmanc FCUM REVIEW 2020-2021 THE FC UNITED PROGRAMME Welcome to our visitors Ex Reds celebrate move permanent, and went This afternoon we welcome Now aged 40 and having on to net 32 goals in 72 to Broadhurst Park a team made one appearance for appearances before leaving that FC United met earlier in England (as a half-time for a full-time deal at the year on a rain-sodden substitute against Portugal Harrogate after the 2016-17 afternoon in Cumbria. in 2002), Dunn made his campaign. That day, on Saturday 11th managerial debut after initially Meanwhile another January and with FC United joining Oldham Athletic as a ex-Red now enjoying life as on the back of a 15-game player in the summer of 2015. a professional with Barnsley unbeaten run, saw us However, after just nine in the Championship, Elliot Scroll of Honour approach the game against appearances and the sacking Simoes, was also toasting the National League leaders of David Kelly, he was named Barrow’s title rivals a fine season after being As part of the recent with a sense of slight optimism as the latest in a long line Harrogate also celebrated named as the club’s Young ‘No Drain No Game’ as we dreamed of a potential of Latics manager yet lasted promotion to the Football Player of the Year. Crowdfunder, which raised trip to Wembley, whilst hoping club wouldn’t have been too just four months in the League through the The Portuguese winger in excess of £32k to renew our hosts Barrow would be concerned as Barrow AFC hotseat play-offs in early August, spent time with the the Broadhurst pitch more preoccupied with their celebrated a long-awaited before being replaced by with former FC favourite academies of Sporting during the summer, assault on title success than promotion after the National John Sheridan. George Thomson playing Lisbon and Benfica before 66 fans kindly purchased the ‘Matchday Programme Trophy glory. League season ended with Since then, Dunn served a starring role at Wembley. joining FC United’s youth Roll of Honour’. Yet how wrong we were as around half-a-dozen league Blackpool briefly as caretaker Harrogate finished team as a 16-year-old and Names will be appear in the side managed by games remaining, and the boss at the start of this year, runners-up to Barrow and made his first-team debut this section over the coming played at full-strength and table-topping Bluebirds - after originally being named beat Boreham Wood in the against Darlington towards games. Thanks to all! gave the Reds a footballing who were four points clear assistant to the soon-to-be- play-off semis to set up a the end of the 2017-18 lesson and serious wake-up of Harrogate Town - were sacked , and final showdown with Notts season. Still aged only 20, Andrew Allen call, as the gulf in class was awarded the title on points had returned to his previous County. Thomson netted he went on to make 23 Yehuda Ankonina exposed during a humbling average. role after the appointment of the game’s opening goal appearances for FCUM Stacey Ashworth 7-0 defeat at Holker Street. There has also been much at Bloomfield in the fourth minute and and scored twice before John Bailey Since then, of course, and change off the pitch as Barrow Road in March before being assisted another in a 3-1 joining Barnsley in George Baker Emma Ball with the non-league game now prepare for their first lured to Barrow in the success as FCUM’s former January 2019. Stephen Bower brought to a premature end appearance in the Football summer. league rivals reached the Last season, he scored Mike Bracken just over two months after our League for almost half a Finally, today’s fixture will League for the first time. two times in 17 games for Trophy meeting, the early century, with manager Evatt be the second time that Speaking to the Andrew Brunt the Tykes, who avoided John Butler finish proved a blessing for departing for League Two FC United have played host Non League Paper after relegation as a result of Stefano Carlessi one of our clubs. rivals Bolton Wanderers; to Barrow, with our first ever that man-of-the-match Wigan Athletic’s points Anthony Carroll As FC United, sitting second whilst the previously open meeting taking place almost performance, Thomson was deduction for entering Alan Charman in the Northern Premier, terrace that FCUM fans a decade ago as the Reds full of praise for his former administration. Simon Cobb were ultimately denied an enjoyed a soaking on last welcomed the Conference club, saying: “I joined FC Declan Coleman opportunity of promotion season is being covered side to Gigg Lane for an United after a loan spell. Dominic Cowen through the end-of-season ahead of the new campaign. FA Cup tie played on I loved that club, the fans, Andrew Cunliffe play-offs due to the season’s Taking over from Evatt Saturday 24th October 2010. everything about it. To have Stephen de Botte cessation, things worked out and tasked with overseeing A crowd of 3,263 turned that many fans home and Sarah Des Forges far better for our visitors this Barrow’s return to the fourth out to see a solitary goal away, there’s not many Antony Devaney afternoon. tier is former Blackburn from Carlos Roca in the 78th clubs like that.” Piers Dixon Despite being denied a Rovers and Birmingham minute prove decisive in a 1-0 The forward originally Nick Donlon possible FA Trophy final midfielder David Dunn, who win, with victory helping to set signed for FCUM on loan Paulo dos Santos appearance at the national was appointed as the club’s up a famous first-round tie at from Chester in November Aled Duckfield stadium, supporters of the new boss in July. Rochdale. 2015 before making his

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What are the aims for this season – community since the Trust took over. on and off the field – and where would We have led the way with our platforms for you like your club to be in five years? wheelchair users, and making the stadium OLD FRIENDS The aims for the season would have to be more accessible. We are on the cusp of What are your memories to have a side that is there or thereabouts unveiling new development plans for an from the day we met come crunch time. I think if Wrecsam are all-seater Kop as we’ve been three-sided at Broadhurst Park awarded an extra point for a draw, we’ve got since the 90s). The biggest thing has to be half a decade ago? a good chance. fighting the greedy businessmen who tried Jealousy. I adored (and still In five years I’d like to see us as a paragon to turn us over for a few quid mind. do) everything about the place of fan-owned success, to be challenging in The Trust needs to get its act together in a and what youve built. It’s a shining light to the League and quietly growing. lot of ways, but that infrastructure needs to everyone and a huge inspiration to me. The potential here is massive. We can’t let be preserved and developed. some chancer in who flashes the cash. We need evolution not revolution. How has the team performed since we Let us build it ourselves with love and met and what is your current level of dedication. Be patient. It will mean something Finally, can you tell us what you know support both home and away? if we succeed having done it ourselves. and think about FC United? Kicking off a new irregular series The team is cack, we flatter to decieve for I never want my Club to be vulnerable I know FC United was born out of frustration featuring fan-owned clubs that FCUM the most part. The majority of Wrecsam again. It was heartbreaking last time. with working-class people being frozen out have met since our formation, we look fans think we have a divine right to be in the financially, and to me the game at the top at a team from just over the Welsh Football League because we’re an old club. What’s your most memorable moment is now soulless and a sad shell of a thing. border who we entertained at The reality is we have been mediocre at best as a supporter? All surface no substance. Broadhurst Park in a pre-season for most of our existence and non-league Playing Real Zaragoza in the mid-80s at the Fans felt alienated and unwanted, so left friendly five years ago. Wrexham AFC is wonderful. The soul of football resides in Holy Ground Cae Ras. We drew. I was about to recreate what they felt in their heart was supporter and ‘Shag’ fanzine editor non-league; no doubt in my mind about that. 11 years old and it was magical. An evening the true game. A game for all, accessible for RYAN AP DAFYDD answers some game and bumper crowd. The old man didn’t working people and with a Socialist ethos questions... What have been the biggest challenges go on the ale, so that meant he took me. underpinning everything. you’ve faced since then, and how have I’d give my left gonad to have that here. First, can you give us a history of you coped and been affected by the And away from the match, what have I think FC United is a beautiful thing and your club before our teams played current Covid crisis? been the club’s greatest achievements it should be an example to all that we can each other and how you became The biggest challenges facing the club are with regards to the supporters, proudly build a club with Socialism at its fan-owned? the fans and the relationship between the work in the community, stadia, etc? centre and proudly espouse those values Wrecsam is the oldest professional football fans and the board. We have a Football Club We are a very well run Football Club that of love and working-class pride. team in Cymru. We play our home games board and a Trust board, accompanying that have started to develop better links in the Forza FC United. No Pasaran comrades. at Cae Ras (The Racecourse) and we have there are and have been problems. been decidedly average since 1864 – apart Provided the Football Club become from a fortnight in 1978. more transparent on social media and Our old chairman Pryce Griffiths sold the communicate better then things will club to shady businessmen/asset strippers, improve. Along with that our recruitment who ran us into the ground and nearly killed needs to be better and we need to be seen to the club. actively seek out fresh blood for the board. Thankfully we had clued-up supporters The danger is we have many fans who spout who fought tooth and nail and we eventually on social media but don’t engage with the took over after so-called fans (local Trust or even join the Trust. businessmen this time) bought the club Educating fans about the dangers of that from the first parasites and then proved boom-or-bust ownership model is huge. We to be just as bad as the first lot. Wrexham have a lot of fans with short memories who Supporters Trust eventually took over the would dismantle the Trust and sell up to the running of the Football Club a few seasons first del boy bidder to chase the dream of into our tenure in non league. league Football. Silly billys.

[email protected] 0161 769 2005 @FCUnitedMcr F.C United of Manchester @fcutdofmanc ’S SQ DAY UAD TO S

OLIVER MARTIN JOSH BROOKS PRE-SEASON CONNOR BROWN LENNY FIELDHOUSE FRIENDLY AARON MORRIS JASON TAYLOR Saturday TYLER OWEN MATTY PLATT 22nd August CURTIS JONES 2020 CALLUM GRIBBIN MIKE JONES MIKE POTTS NATHAN BURKE LEWIS HARDCASTLE LUKE GRIFFITHS JACK LENEHAN JOSH LILLIS MIKE DONOHUE JAMES JONES MORGAN HOMSON SMITH BOBBY BURNS FINLAY SINCLAIR-SMITH TOM BEADLING REGAN LINNEY JOEL BYROM DANIEL COCKERLINE NEXT GAME AT ASH SMITH-BROWN BROADHURST: DIOR ANGUS versus MICHAEL FOWLER City of Liverpool JACK HINDLE Saturday 5th NEIL DANNS September BRAD BARRY

Today’s referee: David McNamara. Assistants: Chris Isherwood & Kevin Mulraine