Always think of Manchester as having one foot in the Midlands and one in the North. It may be London's perception of THE NORTHERN CITY, but for me the real north starts at York. I work in Manchester from time to time and no matter how much money is thrown at it, I still find it a depressing place and am always relieved to get out of there. Newcastle is a half the size of Manchester but, in my opinion, so much better. Players are attracted to Manc coz it currently has 2 of the biggest clubs in the world and the city has the lots of shiny bars and shops and has a major international airport that can get you out of there quickly.
.. Newcastle's a smashing city .. Often gets smashed after a derby defeat