Set in Manchester in 1984 and based on true events,[1] it stars Brian Cox as Scottish football manager Sir Matt Busby, who comes out of retirement to coach a team of young working-class boys captained by the talented but unruly Georgie Gallagher (played by Jack Smith).

[1] The film also stars Natascha McElhone as Erica Gallagher, Anne Reid as Jean Busby, and Toby Stephens as Georgie's prospective headmaster.

His passion for football is challenged by Erica's desire to have Georgie attend the prestigious, rugby-playing Lancashire Grammar School For Boys, run by the strict and scholarly Dr Farquar (Toby Stephens).

The stranger happens to be an elderly Sir Matt Busby (Brian Cox) and after tracking him down along with the help of his friend Bob (Philip Jackson), the pair learn that Georgie is an unusually talented footballer.

On the day of Sir Matt Busby's 75th birthday, the team gears up to play the final, while Georgie takes his exam with hopes of passing and receiving his scholarship.