FC United of Manchester mark anniversary with Benfica friendly

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, FC United of Manchester play in the seventh tier of English football

Non-league side FC United of Manchester will play a friendly against Portuguese giants Benfica on 29 May to mark their 10th anniversary.

FC United was set up in 2005 in protest to American businessman Malcolm Glazer's takeover of Manchester United.

The Northern Premier Division team will be in their new 拢5.5m home in Moston, called Broadhurst Park, when they play the match.

Twice-European champions Benfica will send a 'B' team for the fixture.

"We have had good relations with Benfica since hosting their U19s when they played Manchester City in the UEFA Youth League last season," said FC United general manager Andy Walsh.

"We are proud to be playing one of the largest fan-owned clubs in the world and are looking forward to welcoming Benfica's representatives to Manchester."

FC United currently play at Curzon Ashton's Tameside Stadium but hope to move into their 4,440-capacity stadium in February.

The club said they also hope to arrange a friendly with League Two side AFC Wimbledon, who are also supporter-owned.

Image source, Airviews photography

Image caption, FC United's new home Broadhurst Park will have a capacity of 4,440