FC United considered TV snub

FC UNITED general manager Andy Walsh has admitted the non-league outfit gave serious consideration to refusing to appear on live TV tonight.

Five years after their formation, a direct result of the Glazer takeover at Manchester United but also due to a disenchantment at how the professional game treated its fans, FC United have arrived in the FA Cup first round.

Once they were pitched into a local derby with Rochdale at Spotland, it was always likely their unique history – and travelling support estimated at 4,000 – would be appealing to the broadcasters, with ESPN choosing the tie as a fitting first match for them to show.