Manchester United are recognised as one of the most famous football clubs on the planet, with a global fanbase that stretches into every corner of the world. Yet beyond the terraces of the North-West of England, no country has embraced — and contributed to — the club quite like Ireland.

Both north and south of the border, Irish influence runs deep into the DNA of Old Trafford. Four of United's top 15 appearance makers are Irish. The joint-fifth all-time leading scorer is Irish. Three club captains. And two players widely regarded as the finest to ever wear the shirt: Roy Keane and George Best.

How the connection began

Irish migration to Britain accelerated during the Great Famine and through the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, with Manchester emerging as one of the most heavily settled cities. Irish workers helped build the city's infrastructure — and several railway workers were among those who founded the original Newton Heath in 1878.

When the club faced financial collapse 24 years later and was rescued by a group of investors, the new name