Umbro uses Michael Owen (centre) as its marketing star

The Cheshire-based manufacturer, which floated on the stock market in June, has reported a 51% rise in profits.

It said turnover in the six months to 4 July rose 36.4% to �94.1m as pre-tax profits hit �10.4m for the period.

Umbro also provides and sells replica kit for 150 leading clubs worldwide, such as Chelsea and Celtic.

New range

Supporters were particularly keen on the new England away kit in the run-up to Euro 2004.

"The increasing popularity of football... together with the popularity of licensed kit of Umbro's sponsored teams, helped fuel a 48.1% rise in licensed clothing," said the firm.

Other Umbro-branded sportswear achieved a 7% rise, with growth over the rest of the year set to be supported by the launch of Umbro's new Evolution X range.

However, sales of footwear and equipment were said to have been disappointing as the firm was hit by discounting from competitors.

The firm, which uses Liverpool star Michael Owen as its frontman, added that a distribution deal with US-based Foot Locker would help it expand internationally.

Umbro chief executive Peter McGuigan said that first-half sales and profit performance was "exceptionally strong" and the company was confident in the outcome for the full-year trading period.