Turkish football market is the second largest in Europe

A supporter base of 21 million fans eclipses traditionally footie-mad nations such as the UK, Italy, Spain and France. A large proportion of them are under 30 years old, a key demographic for sponsors. Participation levels in Turkey are higher, too. About two fifths of Turkish fans aged between 15 and 69 play football. In the UK, less than a quarter of fans do the same. While a majority of Turks follow Galatasaray (40 per cent), Fenerbahçe

(33 per cent) and Besiktas (23 per cent), the fate of the national side is more important than the domestic league. With only Tugay and Alpay playing in the Barclaycard Premiership, Turkish fans are more interested in the Spanish, Italian, Brazilian and German leagues. The most popular English club among Turks is Manchester United. Hope that helps, Sven.