MANCHESTER UNITED’S game with Liverpool has been POSTPONED after fuming fans stormed locked-down Old Trafford in a security breach.
A planned protest against the Red Devils’ owners, the Glazers, led to a stand-off with police at the entrance to the hotel just hours before the game.
Supporters chanted and lit flares next to the team bus as it waited for the squad.
And a demonstration featuring a large number of fans outside Old Trafford led to hundreds rushing onto the pitch.
Footage emerged online of fans chanting towards the Sky Sports television studio and cameras set up in the main stand.
One clip even showed a flare being hurled in the direction of the gantry, while protestors were also seen carrying the United corner flags.
Authorities managed to usher the crowds off the pitch but amid the chaos there was hope the match could be delayed.
Sky Sports’ pitch side reporter Geoff Shreeves revealed players were yet to come out of their hotel rooms due to safety concerns.
But even after the angry supporters were moved on it was decided the game could not go ahead.
A United statement read: “Following discussion between the Police, The Premier League, Trafford Council and the clubs, our match against Liverpool has been postponed due to safety and security considerations around the protest today.
“Discussions will now take place with the Premier League on a revised date for the fixture.
“Our fans are passionate about Manchester United, and we completely acknowledge the right to free expression and peaceful protest.
“However, we regret the disruption to the team and actions which put other fans, staff, and the police in danger.
“We thank the police for their support and will assist them in any subsequent investigations.”
The Premier League said: “Following the security breach at Old Trafford, the Manchester United vs. Liverpool game has been postponed.
“This is a collective decision from the police, both clubs, the Premier League and local authorities.
“The security and safety of everyone at Old Trafford remains of paramount importance.
“We understand and respect the strength of feeling but condemn all acts of violence, criminal damage and trespass, especially given the associated COVID-19 breaches.
“Fans have many channels by which to make their views known, but the actions of a minority seen today have no justification.
“We sympathise with the police and stewards who had to deal with a dangerous situation that should have no place in football.
“The rearrangement of the fixture will be communicated in due course.”
Liverpool commented: “Liverpool Football Club was in full agreement with the decision to postpone today’s fixture as a result of ongoing events at Old Trafford and the surrounding area.
“It is our position that public safety must be the number one factor in any such decision, with the ability to provide a secure environment for the participants, staff and officials being a particular priority.
“It was clearly not possible for this to be guaranteed today due to a situation which escalated rapidly.
“We will continue to have dialogue with Manchester United, the Premier League and the local authorities to find a suitable date to reschedule.
“As soon as we have this information we will update our supporters accordingly.”
Fans were left furious by the club’s plans to enter the European Super League, before they were forced to pull out following mass outrage.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s protest, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “It’s important that the fans’ views are listened to and we communicate better.
“My job is to focus on the football side and that we have the best possible team.
“As I’ve said before I’ve been backed, I’ve had great support from the club and the owners and I’m sure I will get the backing again to go one step further.
“But I’m so happy all the clubs have agreed that this shouldn’t be the way of moving forward.
“Then again, when the protests are on, it’s important they go in a good fashion and that we keep it peaceful.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
