BBC and BT Sport football commentator Alistair Mann, a former pupil at The Manchester Grammar School, returned to speak to sixth-formers about his career.

He also sat down with Year 10 pupils Bruno Quinney, 15, from Altrincham, and Fergus Stevenson, 15, from Warrington, in a role reversal and was interviewed by the boys for their football podcast ‘Kick Off’, which is broadcast on MGS’s school radio station.

Meeting Alistair was a particular highlight for Bruno as the teenager has his sights set on a career as a football commentator.

Earlier this year was heralded as one of the best young sports commentators in the UK when he was one of just 15 youngsters shortlisted from across the country for BBC 5 live’s Young Commentator of the Year award.

Bruno said: “Meeting Alistair was such an amazing experience for myself and Fergus. We have been so used to connecting with his voice but the connection he made with us in person was just as memorable.

“Alistair was extremely supportive of our podcast too, which was particularly encouraging as we look to develop it further. The fact he was so open to our questions too made for a great interview.

“I think Alistair is a great inspiration for boys at MGS considering the career he has already had.

“He insisted upon the idea of following your passions and as me and Fergus consider a career similar to Alistair’s, it was fascinating to hear about his experiences.”

Since 2006, Alistair  has been a regular on Match of the Day.

He also formed part of the BBC’s coverage of the 2008 Beijing, 2012 London and 2016 Rio Summer Olympics and is also a commentator on BT Sport, covering Champions League, Europa League, French, German, Italian and MLS football.

He has won three National Royal Television Society awards and is also a previous winner of the BT Journalist of the Year award.

Fergus added: “It was really interesting hearing from Alistair, particularly about his multitude of both football and media experience.”