I have a confession.
I came to Sheffield in 1982 as an 18 year old, student doing business studies at the Poly. I'd been to games many times in the midlands,where I hailed from but never felt an allegiance to anyone.
I went to a United game in my first week, it felt right - they were the nitty gritty city team, the pigs were fashionable pretty boys. From the second I went into the stadium (on my own) and stood on the kop, I was totally hooked. I have been going now for 34 years, held a season ticket for most of them, been all over watching United including all the Wembley trips, got 2 lads who are passionate unitedites.
Whilst at Poly I met and was lectured in Economics by the late and great Dave Wicketts. There we were, a Londoner and a midlander who spent as much time as possible discussing the Blades and as little time as possible talking about economics. Brilliant days then, and brilliant days now.
I am living proof that some of those pesky students hang around, and develop a love for united. Be patient when little Tarquin turns up with his mum and dad and holds you up for a few minutes. He may sit next to you for the next 50 years at BL.