- Manchester United has appointed Peter Draper from sportswear firm Umbro International to the role of group marketing director.
Draper, who was previously director of retail marketing at Umbro, will oversee all marketing activity at the club including merchandising and sponsorship.
Draper's appointment coincides with the launch of ManUFree.net, a Manchester United branded free UK internet service.
The web service, launched in the UK on July 15th, will use internet company UUNet's global internet infrastructure to capitalise on the international popularity of England's most famous team. A 'local call rate' package is being developed for international supporters, which is anticipated to roll out later this year.
In addition to UUNet, United is working with TWI Interactive, which designs and manages the team's existing website.
It is the first time a British football club has attempted to offer such a service to users outside the UK.
Subscribers to the site will receive a package that includes up to the minute club news, a Manchester United email address and free web space to develop a personal website.
David Gill, financial director of Manchester United PLC said, "The aim of the Manchester United web site is to connect our fans both in the UK and around the world to the Club and offer a comprehensive set of online services that they can enjoy. ManUFree.net is a natural extension of this offering".
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