Football fans have a reputation for being dedicated, sometimes a tad obsessive, but nonetheless committed to their team.

They all claim to be a side’s biggest supporter, going to extraordinary lengths to prove their loyalty.

But if there was one person who might be able to lay claim to this title, it would have to be Manchester United supporter Keith Norris.

Keith is the Carrickfergus man behind the flag — yes that very famous flag, Big Lily.

Measuring 100ft x 60ft, the red, white and black symbol of Keith’s unwavering passion for the Red Devils has appeared at matches in some of the most far away places in the world including Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, Moscow and Turin.

Big Lily has also been the subject of a book, featured in several films, television documentaries and national newspapers.

It was draped over the Stormont Hotel as a mark of respect to George Best on the day of his funeral and even appeared at Keith’s wedding in Japan.

And now the oversized flag, which has been in semi-retirement for the past few years, is set to reappear once more to cheer on United at the Olympic Stadium in Rome tonight.

Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph before the big game, Keith said he was looking forward to having Lily on display once again after a hiatus.

Two years ago, Keith’s best friend Martin ‘Faceman' Cleary, who had been the inspiration behind Big Lily, died suddenly.

“After he died I, personally, was not interested in doing that much anymore,” he explained. “For me and the guys Faceman was one of the reasons why we did it, for a bit of craic. Now it’s been a few years, we have had time to grieve and I am looking forward to it. This will be a special one for Faceman.”

Keith explained the name Big Lily came about so the flag would not be used as a political tool in Northern Ireland.

“Orange Lily and Easter Lily are symbols used by both cultures in Northern Ireland.

“If she makes it to Rome it is as a tribute to Faceman and all that he stood for. These can be emotional affairs and often a tear or two is shed,” he added.