The 40% figure is based on the fact that post Etihad, Dennis Tueart came to a supporters club meeting at Northenden, a discussion took place about the new stadium and how big it was going to be, 50000 or 60000. 50000 was the clubs decision, as they felt we would fill it with our then current fan base and demand for match day tickets and season ticket holders. It would be built to enable simple expansion. Somebody asked how the club measured the demand for tickets and Dennis replied simply that records were kept of where sales and enquiry was made, and 36% at that time were made in the South East, he joked, don't tell the United Fans. I have friends and relatives in Surrey, Reigate, Eastbourne and Bexhill, we often travel down there and more often than not I'll see all ages of people wearing City merchandise. The demographic of fans at home is changing dramatically, and away to a certain extent. Like it or not, we are attracting fans from all over the place, and some of those that once went regularly, are again starting to attend. I was looking at the programme last night for the last game at Maine Road against Southampton. There is a fans roll of honour throughout it, containing thousands of fans names. As many are from outside of Manchester, than in it. The club know better than us where and how our fan base is growing, consider the train they run from London now. I remember us playing Arsenal in the cup a few years ago, we won 1 nil late on. There were 9000 blues at the game, unheard of for a midweek night game in London. Like it or lump it, we are becoming the next club to support for younger fans and those around the country and World. Pep is the new draw for many fans, add to that the probable cup and league success he will bring for several years, add some top quality players, more sponsorship, more income, more seats in the stadium. Don't underestimate what the club and hierarchy are doing to enhance the clubs standing, it's a growing project with no end in sight. Massive as the Red cnuts would say....!
