United gloom sets in with fall in profits likely

MANCHESTER United football fans are braced for more off-the-field gloom after forecasts showed the club are likely to report a sharp fall in profits.

The predicted decline in half-year figures - down by half on last year to £13 million - is expected to put pressure on United’s board to recommend an £800m takeover offer from US tycoon Malcolm Glazer.

The disappointing start to the financial year is likely to be blamed on falling media income and the impact of the team’s third-place Premiership finish last season, which meant reduced earnings from the Champions League.