Solskjaer says Sunday’s fans protest went too far

Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, says fans protest must remain “civilised” following the postponement of Sunday’s Premier League match with Liverpool.

Thousands of United supporters demonstrated against the Glazer family’s ownership at Old Trafford and the team hotel prior to the Premier League game.

Police say six officers were injured during the protests, which also saw over 200 fans break into the stadium.

“It was a difficult day for us,” Solskjaer said.

“Of course we wanted to play. We wanted to beat Liverpool for the fans because our job has to be getting good performances and good results on the pitch.”

The Norwegian added: “That’s the players’ focus, that’s my focus but, as I said before the game, we have to listen.

“We have to hear the fans’ voice. It’s everyone’s right to protest. It has to be in a civilised manner, though. It has to be in a peaceful manner. Unfortunately, when you break in, when police officers get injured, scarred for life, that’s too far. That’s one step too far.

“When it gets out of hand like this, it’s a police matter. It’s not about showing your opinions anymore.”

A 28-year-old man was charged with throwing fireworks in a street and using threatening behaviour during the protests at Salford’s Lowry Hotel, where the Manchester United team were staying.

Sunday’s game against rivals Liverpool, which had been scheduled to kick off at 16:30 BST, was the first Premier League match to be postponed because of fan protests.

It follows United’s decision – along with five other English clubs – to join the European Super League (ESL) last month, before subsequently pulling out.

However, United fans have protested against the Glazer family’s ownership since their leveraged takeover in 2005.

It was the third demonstration against the Glazers family in recent days, after fans gathered at Old Trafford the previous weekend and others entered the club’s training ground on 22 April.