Man City welcome youngsters from local children's hospital

Some brave children from Royal Manchester Children's Hospital visited Manchester City's City Football Academy for the day, where they were welcomed as honorary team members.

The young City fans, aged six to 11, each got their hands on a brand new 2018/19 home kit and various other goodies.

But the main attraction was their footballing heroes, both the Manchester City men's and women's squad, along with manager Pep Guardiola.

Blake, George, Charlie, and Thomas, who are all undergoing treatment at the hospital for a variety of illnesses, sat on the front row alongside Guardiola, Sergio Aguero, and more of their icons.

A particular highlight for them was Benjamin Mendy, who was keeping their spirits up and ensuring they felt welcome while making jokes, funny faces, and trying to put them off during the official photo.

Even Leroy Sane got in on the act, but he was actually trying to put off his team-mate Fabian Delph instead.

One of the patients, Blake, said: 'When I was told that I'd be part of the official team photo I was so excited! To meet Leroy Sane and the rest of the team was a fantastic experience. I had such a great day, thank you!'

As they arrived for the photo shoots, the youngsters were able to get their shirts signed, and a couple of them even had time for a kickaround with some of the players from the women's team.

Yet more surprises were in store for the kids, as they were given tickets for Manchester City's next home Premier League fixture. For some of them, it'll be their first time seeing City play at the Etihad Stadium.

'We'd like to extend a big thank you to Manchester City for inviting some of our patients to be a part of their official team photo,' said Donna O'Reilly, Senior Community Fundraising Officer for the hospital.

'The children absolutely loved being welcomed by all the players and had an unforgettable day, giving them memories they will treasure forever.

'The club are always thinking of our patients and different ways to give them a treat whilst going through difficulties at hospital. We are extremely grateful for all the support they've showed us over the years.'

Manchester City has a long standing relationship with the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Earlier this season, some of the patients joined the players on their champions parade through the city centre with the Premier League Trophy and the Carabao Cup.

They've also made special visits to the hospital with the club's mascots, Moonbeam and Moonchester.

The hospital will be conducting a bucket collection at the Etihad on October 20, when Manchester City host Burnley.