Your choice of football team can greatly enhance your career prospects, according to new research from executive careers website TheLadders.co.uk.

The research found that 54% of management employees believe supporting a common team with your peers and boss can help with career prospects, while nearly half (47%) feel sharing a favourite team can open doors within a company.

The survey also shows that 84% think football is a great conversation starter and way of getting noticed in the workplace, and by supporting the same team, 20% have accompanied the boss to matches.

Derek Pilcher, managing director of TheLadders.co.uk, says: “A healthy football interest can create good banter with your colleagues and peers. It is a good way for you to build interpersonal relationships.  If the boss supports the same team, it is okay to discuss a bit but do be careful and don’t overplay your game.”