MOST people wouldn't agree with Bill Shankly's tongue-in-cheek claim that football is more important than life or death.
But many fans admit to putting their teams before family, friends and holidays, according to new research.
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More than 10 per cent of Premier League season ticket-holders claim to have passed up job opportunities to continue following their teams, and most would be prepared to make even greater sacrifices if they knew that it would bring success to their clubs.
A survey, carried out in August by Virgin Money reveals that followers of Newcastle United are most willing to give up quality time with loved ones at home to watch their loved ones in black and white stripes. Despite not having seen their team win a trophy since 1969, 47 per cent of Newcastle fans regularly attend matches rather than staying in with the family -- unless they're at the game too.
After Newcastle come supporters of Birmingham City (35 per cent) and Sunderland (34).
Chelsea, whose fans are often accused of being Johnny-come-lately glory-hunters, are in a surprising fourth-place with 32 per cent. Wigan Athletic, whose small numbers mask their fervour, are joint sixth with Manchester City.