Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) has submitted plans for the construction of a major new youth development and first team training centre in the Openshaw West area of the city.

Forming part of the club's recently announced Etihad Campus vision, the proposed centre is set to cover up to 80 acres (32 hectares) of brownfield land close to its Etihad Stadium.

The submission of plans to Manchester City Council (MCC) follows a six-week consultation process, which the club said had generated a 97 per cent approval rating from local residents.

Under MCFC's plans for the site, a new home for its youth development will provide a home for up to 400 young players who will train and study alongside senior players.

The centre will feature one half-size and 11 full-size youth development pitches; one half-size and four full-size first team pitches; and sleeping accommodation and a classroom facility.

It is also proposed that the centre will comprise a 7,000-seat stadium for youth matches and a first team building with changing areas, a gym and an injury and rehabilitation centre.

MCFC chief football operations officer Brian Marwood said: "It is important to make clear that the development and recruitment of youth talent is at the heart of our long term strategy of building a successful and sustainable football club for the future.

"The opportunity to build a world class facility supported by a well researched youth development plan would be a significant step in the realisation of that strategy."

MCC leader Sir Richard Leese added: "We welcome the principle of this proposed development which reflects not only the needs and priorities of the football club, but recognises and reflects the community's priorities too."