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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Seamus McDonnell

Manchester city centre packed as England fans gather ahead of historic Euro 2020 final

Massive crowds of England fans have begun to gather in Manchester city centre ahead of a historic clash with Italy.

The Euro 2020 final doesn’t kick off until 8pm but excited supporters are already filing into town and queuing for their spots.

Thousands of people have travelled to the city centre for the game and the tension is continuing to build.

England shirts and St George’s crosses are on full display throughout the city, with many businesses choosing to hang flags or bunting outside.

READ MORE: The sleepy Cheshire village where resident Raheem Sterling is already a local legend - and the neighbours ready to roar for the England star

One young fan, Chris Jackson, who was enjoying the atmosphere in Exchange Square, said he thought Italy would be the biggest challenge this England team had faced.

“It’s just great really isn’t it,” he said.

“I’m just well up for it and I think everyone is well up for it.

“It’s good to see town so busy really but I hope we can win.”

Another supporter, James Bridge, added: “This is massive. I think it’s going to be so so good.

“We’ve not been in a final since 1966 so it’s going to be good.”

Pictures showed large queues outside the Crown & Kettle pub in Ancoats this morning, while a large group also gathered in Oldham Street in the Northern Quarter with hours still to go before kick off.

Video footage also showed groups of fans with flares chanting ‘It’s coming home’ in Piccadilly Gardens.

The match kicks off at 8pm and is being shown on both ITV and BBC One this evening.

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