Managers Are England United - Alex McLeish

From Vital England:

Premier League managers have joined together for the "England United" campaign to host the FIFA World Cup in 2018.

And Sir Alex Ferguson, winner of a record 11 Premier League titles, has promised any fan coming to England for the tournament that they would become part of the Manchester United "family".

The managers' support as individuals and through the League Managers Association comes ahead of FIFA President Sepp Blatter's visit to No 10 Downing Street to see Prime Minister David Cameron.

Led by Ferguson, Harry Redknapp, Arsene Wenger, Roberto Mancini and Steve Bruce are all featured in a new video supporting the 2018 bid while all 20 Premier League managers, from seven countries across Europe, have also backed the campaign and praised the passion and facilities in England as ideal for a World Cup.

Chelsea manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who secured the Premier League title in his first season at Stamford Bridge and played in two World Cup tournaments, stressed that England, and particularly London, would be the "perfect setting" for the World Cup and noted that the diversity of cultures in this country would create a "fantastic atmosphere for fans and players alike".

Premier League managers have played a key role in the bid since its launch in May 2009. They have been involved in public bid events in host cities, private meetings with members of FIFA and have recorded personal messages of support for the bid shown to FIFA Executive Committee members around the world. Ferguson recently hosted the FIFA Inspection Team at Old Trafford during their visit to England in August.

Richard Bevan, Chief Executive of the League Managers Association, said:
"The LMA and its managers are fully committed to bringing the World Cup to England in 2018 and it is pleasing to see how many managers have given their time to assist with the campaign. I believe a World Cup in this country would inspire more people to become involved in coaching and management and create benefits for the game at all levels."

FIFA will make their decision on the 2018 and 2022 World Cups in Zurich on 2nd December.

Alex McLeish, Birmingham City manager:
"The level of support and love of the game is what makes England such a special place to play and watch football. Every week we see thousands of fans from every walk of life supporting their teams across the country, creating the amazing atmosphere that really inspires the players. I fully support England's bid for the 2018 World Cup."

As featured on Vital England (feel free to leave comments here and there, using your same vital logins on each).

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