Former Manchester United favourite Viv Anderson has given Altrincham's play-off push a ringing endorsement and urged fans of his old club: "Get yourself along to Moss Lane on Saturday - you'll like what you see."
With the Premier League giving way to international fixtures this weekend, seventh-placed Alty find themselves centre stage as they host a crucial Vanarama National League promotion encounter with a Gateshead side just one point behind them at The J.Davidson Stadium, kicking off at 3pm.
As a bonus, Saturday is Non-League Day, with a host of added attractions lined up, and Anderson can see many a United fan adopting Alty as their second team if they head down Moss Lane to witness the free-flowing attacking football that has made the Robins one of the league's top scorers on 71 goals.
Reflecting on the many times he has marvelled at the quality on show at The J.Davidson Stadium, the former right-back, a key component in United's stunning revival at the end of the 1980s after becoming Sir Alex Ferguson's first signing and capped by England on more than 50 occasions, said: "I’ve been coming to Altrincham FC for the last few years, and I have always thoroughly enjoyed the whole matchday experience.
"I have to say that the style of football they play is the way I was taught to play, and it lends itself to a very attractive spectacle.
"I like what I see when I watch the Robins, and that is important. As a spectator, you want to be entertained, and there is no question that is at the forefront of the Phil Parkinson philosophy at Altrincham.
"They are a great club who are going places, and I wish Phil and the guys every success in their remaining matches. These are exciting times, with a play-off place up for grabs, and I’ve got my fingers crossed for everyone connected with the club - there are some fabulous people who work there."
In an initiative called Paint The Town Red for Non-League Day, Alty are urging fans to turn out in their colours this Saturday to ensure the stadium is bedecked with red, and United supporters will be more welcome than ever if they come along wearing their club scarves, hats and replica shirts.
Alty are expecting a bumper crowd, and while there is admission at the turnstiles on the day, the club advise purchasing tickets in advance here.
