MANKATO (AP) - A town in southern Minnesota is preparing for an influx of Minnesota Vikings football players and fans on the eve of the team's three-week training camp.

Mankato businesses are hiring additional employees in anticipation of a potential surge in clientele. One restaurant owner says he expects a 30 to 40 percent increase in business.

A record 69,000 fans attended last year's training camp.

The 49th annual Vikings training camp begins Thursday when players return to field at Minnesota State University. Festivities are set to kick off with a tailgate party featuring Vikings players and cheerleaders.

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