NFL great Marcus Allen said he’s ready to meet and mingle with Vancouver football fans as they watch the gridiron rematch between the New York Giants and New England Patriots Sunday in Super Bowl XLVI.

Football fever has gripped Vancouver, with many bars and restaurants hosting special events for fans to cheer on their favourite team.

“I haven’t been to Vancouver in quite some time, but I’ve been there before and I think it’s a beautiful city,” said Allen, who won league MVP and the Super Bowl in 1983 with the L.A. Raiders. “My brother (Damon Allen) used to play for the B.C. Lions, so I have some history there.”

The Hall of Fame running back, along with Oakland Raiders wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, will be in town for the National Football League’s official Super Bowl XLVI party at the Commodore Ballroom.

More than 850 fans are expected to join in the festivities, which include a personal greeting from the Seattle Seahawks cheerleaders, an NFL tailgate with food inspired by the cities of the two teams, and a live performance by Saskatoon rockers The Sheepdogs, the first unsigned band ever to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone.

Allen revealed he won’t be rooting for anyone in particular.

“I got so many friends on both sides,” Allen said. “I try to stay neutral but I anticipate and expect a great game because both teams are very explosive. They can put points on the board immediately so whoever plays the best defence, makes the least amount of mistakes and protect their passer is going to win the game.”