Man Utd-Liverpool called off after fans storm pitch in protest against Glazers

Supporters protest against Manchester United's owners, inside Old Trafford. Picture: Getty Images

The Premier League clash between Man United and Liverpool has been called off. 

It comes as United fans dramatically broke into Old Trafford and invaded the pitch in protest against the Glazer family.

After fans stormed the pitch the decision was made not to play the game “due to safety and security considerations around the protest”, the Old Trafford club have announced.

Had Liverpool won this afternoon, Man City would have been confirmed as Premier League champions.

Earlier : Manchester United fans dramatically broke into Old Trafford and invaded the pitch in protest against the Glazer family, leaving their Premier League match against Liverpool in doubt.

The Red Devils were among 12 clubs that signed up for the breakaway European Super League, which collapsed within 48 hours due to huge, unrelenting pressure.

Those plans brought anger against the already despised Glazer family to a new level, with fans congregating at Old Trafford to demand change ahead of Sunday’s Premier League match against rivals Liverpool.

Fans make their way into the ground as they protest against the Glazer family. Picture: Barrington Coombs

The game, which had been due to get under way at 4.30pm, was delayed after hundreds of supporters got into the stadium and on to the pitch, but no revised kick-off time was given by the Premier League.

The Premier League said on its live blog: “The safety of everyone at Old Trafford is paramount. At present there is no revised kick-off time. We will update accordingly.” Flares were let off by protestors inside the ground, where corner flags were held aloft and one supporter was seen throwing a tripod from the interview zone.

Earlier:

Manchester United fans protesting against the club's ownership took to the Old Trafford pitch this afternoon.

Fans protest on Old Trafford pitch. Image via Sky Sports

Hundreds of fans invaded the pitch ahead of the Premier League clash against Liverpool.

United supporters were expressing their anger following plans backed by the Glazer family to join a proposed European Super League, which collapsed soon after.

The plans added to years of discontent and protests from supporters following the controversial takeover by the Glazers in 2005.

Outside the ground, large numbers of supporters are also protesting.

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— Red Issue (@RedIssue) May 2, 2021

Amid initial reports the match might be in doubt, the Premier League has said there has been no coronavirus breach as no supporters have gained entry to dressing rooms.

Fans have now left the pitch and the Premier League have confirmed the kickoff will be delayed.

If United lose today's fixture, neighbours Manchester City will be crowned Premier League champions.

Fans protesting on the pitch at Old Trafford. pic.twitter.com/ocfy5uGy4A

— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) May 2, 2021

Speaking ahead of the planned protest, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "It's important that the fans' views are listened to and we communicate better. My job is to focus on the football side and that we have the best possible team.

"As I've said before I've been backed, I've had great support from the club and the owners and I'm sure I will get the backing again to go one step further. When the protests are on, it's important they go in a good fashion and that we keep it peaceful."