HUNDREDS of furious Manchester United fans have gathered outside Old Trafford to protest against the club’s owners ahead of the Manchester derby.
Supporters carrying protest banners descended on the stadium before Sunday’s huge clash with Manchester City.
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The latest demonstration is aimed at the Glazer family and Sir Jim Ratcliffe amid growing anger over the way match-going supporters are being treated.
Fan group The 1958 called for supporters to gather outside The Bishop Blaize pub near Old Trafford before marching towards the ground.
The protest comes after United’s crackdown on alleged ticket touting resulted in a number of season-ticket holders receiving bans and sanctions.
Supporters claim some innocent fans have been caught up in the operation and punished without being shown sufficient evidence.
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The situation has sparked fury among several United fan groups, who have joined forces to demand answers from the club.
Banners were on display outside Old Trafford as supporters made their feelings clear ahead of the derby.
The 1958 previously declared that “a line has been crossed” and urged United fans to stand together.
A spokesperson said: “For generations, match-going Reds have given their time, money and loyalty to Manchester United, home and away.
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“That loyalty deserves to be treated with respect.”
The group added: “This is not about one group or one individual. It is about how Manchester United treats its match-going supporters.
“It may not affect you today, it may not next time but that day is coming for all of us.
United have described their operation against ticket touting as “successful” and apologised for the inconvenience experienced by supporters affected during the process.
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But campaigners insist fans facing serious sanctions should be told exactly what they are accused of and shown the evidence against them.
The 1958 said: “No loyal supporter should be treated as guilty without being given a fair opportunity to understand and challenge the case against them.”
Discontent towards United’s ownership has continued despite Ratcliffe and Ineos taking control of football operations following the British billionaire’s minority investment in the club.
The Glazers have also faced years of protests from supporters over their ownership, with demonstrations regularly taking place around Old Trafford.
And Sunday’s latest show of anger provides a fiery backdrop to the Manchester derby as Michael Carrick‘s side look to get one over on their bitter rivals.