In many cases, including the use of “Blues” by seven teams, nicknames come from color (or colors) of home strip or home uniform kit. Chelsea is known for their famous blue home uniform which grants them the title “The Blues” in the first place. The Black Cats, Sunderland, got their name after the Black Cat gun battery on the river Wear as well as the lucky black cat which led to the team winning the FA cup. Middlesbrough’s nickname, Boro, is a short version of the original team name.

Arsenal is also known as the Gunners for its local links to military arsenal. Tottenham Hotspur is known as Lillywhites from the color of their home strip. Manchester United’s Red Devils was originated from the nickname of nearby rugby league team called Salford. Altrincham, Bristol City, Charlton Athletic, Cheltenham Town, and Swindon Town all got the name “Robins” because the colors of their home kits are similar to a robin’s chest. Aston Villa, Villans as they are nicknamed, got their nickname derived from their official name.

Football clubs’ nicknames can be based on anything. You already see several examples of UK football team nicknames come from the color of their home kit, official name, and local history or industry. You can also find nicknames derived from the name of the ground or the home stadium, their logo, and even misinterpretation of certain terms referring to the team.