Could Sheffield feature in new Netflix football drama from Downton Abbey creator?

Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes is working on a new Netflix drama focusing on the history of football - and it is hoped Sheffield will feature in the new series.
Julian Fellowes is working on a new football drama which could feature Sheffield FC, the world's first football club.Julian Fellowes is working on a new football drama which could feature Sheffield FC, the world's first football club.
Julian Fellowes is working on a new football drama which could feature Sheffield FC, the world's first football club.

The six part series will tell the story of the creation of the modern game, and how Etonians and factory workers "reached across the class divide to establish the game."

Of course, Sheffield is considered the birthplace of football, with Sheffield FC, the world's first football club, formed here in 1857.

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Netflix’s vice president of International Originals Erick Barmack said: “From the UK we have a six-part drama about the invention of modern football, and how those involved in its creation reached across the class divide to establish the game that’s the world’s most popular sport.

“This is part Etonians, this is part factory workers coming together to create the world’s most popular sport."

Full details of the drama have yet to be announced but Sheffield is known around the world for its contribution to the birth of football.

Sheffield FC have been given the seal of approval by world football legend Pele and former FIFA chief Sepp Blatter in the past while Hallam FC, Sheffield's neighbours and formed in 1860 is regarded as the world's second oldest club and games between the two clubs are still contested and known as the Rules Derby.

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Hallam have played at their Sandygate Road home in the Sheffield suburb of Crosspool since formation, with the ground being officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as The Oldest Football Ground in the World.

And in 2004, Sheffield FC were given the FIFA Order of Merit – an award given to only one other club: Real Madrid – and in 2007 they were inducted into the English football hall of fame, to commemorate their 150th anniversary.