Tight security at United’s training ground and Stockholm

LONDON: Manchester United players had their cars checked by security outside their training ground yesterday, before Wayne Rooney led the team in a minute’s silence.

Vehicles belonging to Jose Mourinho, Rooney, Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial and even the team bus were given a thorough searching after at least 22 people died and 59 were injured in Monday night’s atrocity at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

The players were en route to Carrington’s training complex ahead of the Europa League final against Ajax Amsterdam in Stockholm today.

Security were quick to stop all the luxury vehicles from entering the area, with Mourinho’s Jaguar and Rooney’s Audi just two to be looked at. The same happened to both Phil Jones and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, as well as the team bus as the squad prepared to fly into Sweden – currently on red alert after the terror attack.

Once players were allowed into training, they underwent a minute’s silence as a mark of respect.

Old Trafford’s flags flew at halfmast yesterday in the wake of the horrific terror attack at the Manchester Arena.

United have also asked UEFA for permission to don black armbands for today’s final.

A heavy police presence has dominated Stockholm since Monday, with police helicopters circling the skies and armoured cars patrolling the streets.

UEFA have released a statement on the back of Monday night’s horrendous event.

The statement read: “UEFA have been closely working with local authorities and the Swedish FA for many months and the terrorist risk has been taken into account since the very beginning of the project.

“Furthermore, a number of additional securing measures were implemented following the attacks in Stockholm last April.

“Due to tight security arrangements, UEFA urge fans to arrive at the stadium as early as possible, as detailed checks will be made at the entrances, resulting in potential delays in accessing the stadium.”

United flew to Stockholm later yesterday with antiterror cops throwing an impenetrable ring of steel around the team.

The Red Devils also cancelled their prematch press conference scheduled at the Friends Arena.

“Due to the tragic events in Manchester last night and the effect that this has had on everyone here at our club and within our city, we have decided to cancel this evening’s prematch press conference in Stockholm,” United said in a statement. “We are sure that, in the circumstances, you will all understand our position on this matter. Our thoughts are with the victims at this terribly difficult time.” – Agencies