Team’s China fixtures will be their 100th game abroad

CHEADLE Town Football Club’s players are jetting off to China to compete in a football competition which will see them reach a team milestone by playing their 100th match abroad.

Over the years, the amateur club’s members have always had a passion for playing football abroad and in May they will fly to two major cities in China to compete in the competition, playing two games in Xi’an and their 100th match in the city of Beijing.

The club has already taken part in 96 games worldwide, including Brazil, Italy, USA, Tanzania, India, Thailand, Cuba and the Caribbean.

The squad of 17 men from the Cheadle area are taking the trip so seriously that they are having lessons in Chinese culture and basic language before the tour kicks off.

Chris Davies, chairman of Cheadle Football Club, said, “Cheadle FC is a non-league, FA Charter Standard Community football club which has a long standing history in the local community.

“Since 1963 the club has continued to fulfil a tradition of playing football across the world, because we understand that there is a lot to learn from playing with teams of different nationalities, who appreciate the beautiful game.

“Over the years we have been honoured to meet some wonderful people, including, Brazilian football star, Jairzinho and former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi.

“The team has also played in some fantastic venues, including the Aztec Stadium in Mexico City and we’re the only UK football club to play in Cuba in front of thousands of spectators.

“We are currently seeking sponsorship to help support the tour and get our Cheadle squad to China.

“We would like to welcome businesses to enquire, it would be great to hear from you.”

Anyone who is interested in sponsoring the team should contact chairman Chris Davies on 07711670782 or chrisdaviesctfc@outlook. com.