Empty seats at Old Trafford

THE sight of empty seats at Old Trafford for Premiership games is inevitable, according to a leading Manchester United fans’ group.

United have confirmed an average season-ticket price rise of 12.3%, with some seats going up as much as 16.7%.

Although it is thought those with executive seats will be hardest hit by the rises, with a top price ticket now £39, it is claimed many fans will either be priced out of watching the Red Devils completely or choose a less expensive option of watching the game at the pub.

Mark Longden, chairman of the Independent Manchester United Supporters Association said: "It is far easier and cheaper to go and watch the game on TV in a pub somewhere where, it has to be said, the atmosphere is often better as well.

Despite expanding Old Trafford's capacity beyond 70,000 over the past decade, it is 15 years since United failed to sell out league games on a regular basis.

"We do not know what most of our rivals will charge next year but even a price freeze across the rest of the Premiership would mean that next year, only seven clubs will have a cheaper ticket than £23 and nine clubs will have a top price over £39 in some cases almost double."