Hong Kong (CNN) -- In a first for Manchester United, the English professional football club today announced major sponsorship deals with not one, but two, popular Chinese companies -- each in a three-year deal.

CNN: Manchester United teams up with first two Chinese sponsors

Sheffield FC's influence diminished with the advent of professional football, but the club finally bought land for its own ground in 2001.

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Thames has gone further than the other water companies by specifying sporting events and facilities including the Olympics and Paralympics, Wimbledon tennis club and professional football clubs including Arsenal and AFC Wimbledon.

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