Manchester United vs. Liverpool postponed after fan protests

Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Liverpool has been postponed after United supporters staged large-scale protests in opposition to the Glazer family’s management of the club. Fans gathered outside Old Trafford and the team hotel some hours before kickoff, and even gained entry onto the pitch. Despite having been cleared by police, the clubs have now agreed to postpone the fixture. It remains unclear when it will now be played.

United have issued the following statement, via the Manchester Evening News:

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 game’s postponement was reportedly greeted by cheers outside the Lowry Hotel in Salford, with United supporters clearly believing their point has been made. It is certainly a powerful assertion of fan-power in the aftermath of the European Super League farce just a couple of weeks ago.