Two stands at Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson North Stand, and the Stretford End, were evacuated due to a suspect package. As a result, Manchester United’s final game of the season was abandoned just minutes before it was due to kick off.
The alert was triggered by the discovery of a suspect package in the north-west corner of the stadium. Reports confirmed that Police are on their way to inspect the package.Fans were asked to leave the Stretford End and the Sir Alex Ferguson stand and players who were warming up on the pitch left the field. However, some fans were still able to remain inside the stadium.
Confirming the news. The club tweeted: “Kick-off is delayed at Old Trafford after a suspect package was found in the North West Quadrant. Police are inspecting, more to follow.”
Kick-off is delayed at Old Trafford after a suspect package was found in the North West Quadrant. Police are inspecting, more to follow.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 15, 2016
Manchester United were scheduled to host AFC Bournemouth in today’s game and were looking to attempt to steal a top four spot from rivals Manchester City. Bournemouth also tweeted about the incident.
BREAKING: #MUNBOU has been abandoned due to safety fears at Old Trafford. #afcb #MUFC
— AFC Bournemouth ? (@afcbournemouth) May 15, 2016
Breaking: Man Utd v Bournemouth match is postponed. Security concerns over "suspect package" #MUFC #AFCB
— Oliver Kay (@OliverKay) May 15, 2016
Man United saying suspect package found in North West Corner of Old Trafford. Police on way.
— Daniel Taylor (@DTathletic) May 15, 2016
Sections of Old Trafford being evacuated. A 'Code Red' warning has just been announced over the stadium PA #MUFC
— David McDonnell (@DiscoMirror) May 15, 2016
Fifth-placed Manchester United trail fourth-placed Manchester City by 2 points with one game remaining. While City requires a point to secure fourth place in the Premier League, United needed a win over Bournemouth and a favour from Swansea to qualify for the Champions League.
When the match will be rescheduled for is still unclear with Manchester United due to play Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final next weekend.
More to follow….