The "which is the second city" debate is irrelevant (and slightly boring as it goes round in circles for ever and ever). In aviation terms as MUFC fan states MAN is easily second which may be down to the many reasons listed in the posts or simply that BHX is too close to London.
Changing subjects slightly - Does anybody think MAN will have 4 daily services to New York come November? At best they may retain 3 airlines at reduced frequencies or will AA and DL completely withdraw for the winter?