We’ll bar pitch protest thugs, say Man United
MANCHESTER United fans found guilty of violence or causing criminal damage during Sunday’s pitch battles with police will be banned, the club said last night.
Those who just invaded Old Trafford may escape punishment.
A 28-year-old man was arrested and police are hunting for others after six officers were injured.
One suffered a fractured eye socket and another a “significant slash wound” to his face as bottles and cans were thrown from the crowd. A third officer had to be treated in hospital after being dragged and kicked.
Foreign Office minister James Cleverly said there was “no excuse” for the ugly scenes that led to the postponement of United’s game against Liverpool.
The club also denied claims that staff let supporters into Old Trafford during Sunday’s impassioned protests against United’s US owners, the Glazers.
Hundreds of fans poured into the stadium through an entrance in the south-west corner.
The club said: “After breaking through barriers and security on the forecourt, some protesters climbed the gates at the end of the Munich Tunnel, then forced access to a side door in the stand, before opening an external door that let others through to the concourse area and the pitch.
“A second breach occurred when a protester smashed the door of a disability access lift, enabling a group to enter the stand.
“The club has no desire to see peaceful protesters punished, but will work with the
police to identify those involved in criminal activity, and will also issue its own sanctions to any season ticket holder or member identified.
“We remain committed to dialogue and engagement with our fans through the Fans Forum and other appropriate channels.”
Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey said: “The behaviour shown at this protest was absolutely atrocious. Officers were just trying to do their job and facilitate a peaceful protest, however a number of those present became hostile and aggressive towards officers.
“Our officers tried to engage with protesters, but were met with violence and aggression which resulted in enforcement action being taken.
“No officer should have to come to work and face these conditions.”
He urged witnesses with phone footage to get in touch with police.
Boris Johnson said yesterday he understood the “strength of feeling” but condemned the violence.
While campaigning in Hartlepool he said: “I don’t think it’s a good idea to have disruptive behaviour, demonstrations of that kind. But on the other hand, I do understand people’s strength of feeling.
“And I think that it’s a good thing that we have been able to do things which make it pretty clear that the European Super League is not going to be appreciated.”
United’s Supporters Trust blamed the Glazer family for having driven the club into “debt and decline” in the 16 years they have been at the helm. It sent an open letter to the Florida-based owners saying that the protest should focus minds.
The trust added: “What happened was the culmination of 16 years in which your family’s ownership of the club has driven us into debt and decline, and we have felt ever more sidelined and ignored.”