THE FA has confirmed it has opened an official investigation into the “violent and criminal” invasion of Old Trafford.
And the Premier league weighed in by slamming the “minority” of fans whose conduct can “have no justification”.
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Manchester United’s crunch clash with Liverpool on Sunday was postponed after more than 200 United fans stormed into the stadium and congregated on the pitch.
Camera equipment, balls and other items were stolen and wrecked, with some invaders climbing onto the goals and nets.
And in the FA’s first public statement on the incident, Wembley chiefs attempted to demonstrate how the Old Trafford scenes could destroy much of the positive impact of fan power deployed to see off the European Super League.
United’s part in the Super League plot appeared to be the straw that broke the camel’s back after more than 15 years of protests against the Glazer family and their ownership of the club.
An FA spokesperson said: “The fans have played a vital and impactful role in helping to stop the European Super League from happening, and we understand their frustrations.
“However, we cannot condone the violent and criminal behaviour that took place before the scheduled Manchester United vs Liverpool match, which the FA is now investigating.”
Prem chiefs echoed that response, adding its backing for “peaceful protests” but insisting: “The actions of a minority of those present at Old Trafford on Sunday have no justification.
“They will be investigated by the Premier League and The FA as well as by the Greater Manchester Police.”
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The response came as the FA and Prem were allied again on their response to the Super League threat.
Wembley chiefs confirmed the FA has begun its formal investigation into the proposed breakaway, demanding answers from all of the Big Six.
The FA said: “Since we became aware of the European Super League our priority and focus has been on preventing it from happening, both now and in the future.
“Throughout this period, we have been in ongoing discussions with the Government, the Premier League and UEFA.
“In particular, we have been discussing legislation with Government that would allow us to prevent any similar threat in the future so that we can protect the English football pyramid.
“Last week, we started an official inquiry into the formation of the European Super League and the involvement of the six English clubs.
“We wrote to all of the clubs to formally request all relevant information and evidence regarding their participation.
“Once we have the required information, we will consider what appropriate steps to take. “Clearly what happened was unacceptable and could have caused great harm to clubs at every level of English football.”
And the Prem agreed, vowing to ensure its rulebook would rule out any possibility of the plotters coming back for a second attempt.
It said: “The events of the last two weeks have challenged the foundations and resolve of English football.
“The Premier League has prepared a series of measures to enshrine the core principles of the professional game: an open pyramid, progression through sporting merit and the highest standards of sporting integrity.
“These measures are designed to stop the threat of breakaway leagues in the future.
“Opposition to the proposed Super League united the whole of football, with the fans’ voice clearly heard.
“The Premier League recognises the strength of feeling and the right of fans to know what is happening.
“We are committed to maintaining close dialogue with supporters and their representatives, as we work with The FA and Government to identify solutions, but ask that all protests are peaceful.
“The actions of a few clubs cannot be allowed to create such division and disruption.
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“We are determined to establish the truth of what happened and hold those clubs accountable for their decisions and actions.
“We and The FA are pursuing these objectives quickly and appropriately, consulting with fans and Government.”
In addition, promised the League, it would immediately act to avoid any repetition.
It added: “The Premier League, supported by The FA, is taking the following actions to protect our game, our clubs and their fans from further disruption and uncertainty:
“Additional rules and regulation to ensure the principles of the Premier League and open competition are protected
“A new Owners’ Charter that all club owners will be required to sign up to, committing them to the core principles of the Premier League
“Breaches of these rules and the Charter will be subject to significant sanctions
“We are enlisting the support of Government to bring in appropriate legislation to protect football’s open pyramid, principles of sporting merit and the integrity of the football community
“And we will work with the fan groups, Government, UEFA, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to defend the integrity and future prospects of English Football.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
