A GOLD watch connected to the birth of Manchester City in 1894 and a pre-Wembley FA Cup winners’ medal form part of a footballing treasure trove on sale in Chester next week, writes Dave Bettley.

The 1914 winners’ medal was awarded to Burnley player Edwin Mosscrop after their 1-0 victory over Liverpool in what was then still known as the English Cup.

This was the last final to be played at Crystal Palace and George V was the first reigning monarch to attend and present the medals.

The rare 15ct gold trinket is up for auction at Bonham’s Chester branch with an estimate of £5,000-£7,000.

A similar hammer price is anticipated for the 18ct hunter chronograph watch, which was presented on the day Manchester City came into existence. Experts predict it could make up to £8,000.

Complete with 9ct chain and two medals, it was given to Joseph (Danny) Whittle by an admirer in appreciation of his consistent displays as a player with Ardwick AFC, the club which promptly became Manchester City.

Collectors of football memorabilia from all eras should find something to interest them in the Christleton Road saleroom on Wednesday, February 2 (11am start).

Programme collectors will be drawn to a near complete set from the 1958 World Cup finals.

It features 34 programmes from all but one of the group games plus quarter-finals, third and fourth place play-off and the final itself – the estimate being £800-£1,000.

Memories of Liverpool FC’s glory years in the 1960s and 70s will be revived by mementoes from the career of Anfield great Ian Callaghan.

His 857 appearances for the Reds remain a club record and he was part of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad.

The items, which were given by Callaghan to the vendor, include two silver salvers commemorating Liverpool’s European Cup and First Division championship double in 1976-77. They are estimated at £300-£400 and £450-£500.

From the 21st century, there’s a hand-signed red England shirt issued to David Beckham in 2000 for the international against Germany – the last match played under the old Wembley’s twin towers. It is estimated at £500-£600.

Also of interest is a large collection of shirts consigned by former England chef Roger Narbett which, with estimates combined, could make £30,000.

There are also sections relating to golf, cricket and other sports. Attracting boxing fans will be signed Muhammad Ali fight contracts.