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London's growing love affair with American football is given a major boost today by the Government.

Sport minister Tracey Crouch reveals in the Evening Standard that gridiron will play a key part in Britain’s post-Brexit relationship with Donald Trump’s United States.

“It remains our ultimate ambition for there to be a UK-based NFL franchise in the future,” says Ms Crouch.

“This Government has a bold plan for a more global Britain as we leave the European Union, and attracting a franchise from one of the world’s leading sporting institutions would underline yet again what an outward-looking, globally minded country we are, while strengthening our special relationship with the US.”

She adds: “Deloitte estimates that a London NFL team… would generate a direct economic impact of over £100 million a year.”

Her statement emphasises the Government’s commitment to strengthening ties between London and Washington and comes on the eve of the first Super Bowl since President Trump was elected.

The game, between the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots in Houston, Texas on Sunday night, is a potential flashpoint for anti-Trump protests and the NFL is facing questions over how the administration’s policies will affect its plans to stage a game in Mexico City.

Lady Gaga will headline the half-time performance at the Super Bowl and there is speculation that she will use the chance of performing to a global audience of 160 million people to criticise Mr Trump. Other concerts in Houston this weekend include performances by Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars and ZZ Top.

The London connection has been strengthened with the first of the four games being staged in the capital later this year selling out of the most expensive seats within hours. The Miami Dolphins face the New Orleans Saints at Wembley on October 1.

Mark Waller, NFL executive vice-president of international, welcomed the support from the Government and said: “We couldn’t bring four games to the UK without the growing base of passionate fans, combined with the clear backing of the Government and the Mayor of London.”