United call off match after bomb blasts

Manchester United today called off the Indonesian leg of their Far East tour following two bomb blasts at tourist hotels in Jakarta.

United arrived in Kuala Lumpur this morning to news of the explosions in the Indonesian capital, one of which took place at the Ritz-Carlton, the hotel the Red Devils were to be staying at for four nights from tomorrow.

After seeking advice from various parties, including the UK's Foreign Office, United confirmed they would not be flying to Jakarta tomorrow.

“Following the explosions in Jakarta – one of which was at the hotel the team were due to stay in – and based on advice received, the directors have informed the Indonesian FA that the club cannot fulfil the fixture in Jakarta on the 2009 Asia tour,” said a club statement.

United were to play an Indonesia Super League XI on July 20.