Ambulance Strikes Force Man United To Reduce Old Trafford Capacity For Burnley Tie

Manchester United have been compelled to close parts of Old Trafford and reduce fan attendance for this week’s game against Burnely because of strikes by ambulance personnel.

It is estimated over 10,000 fans will be forced to miss out on Wednesday night’s sold out Carabao Cup tie, as two tiers of United’s stadium will be shut following safety advice.

North West Ambulance Service are holding industrial action over pay on December 21st, which has led to the 62,000-capacity limit being placed.

A statement by the Club reads: “The club has worked hard to develop a medical plan which will enable us to allow approximately 62,000 fans to be in attendance, but with West Stand tier 2 and North Stand tier 3 required to be closed.

“It was not possible to move the match to another date due to the unavailability of other key public services and matchday staff over the Christmas period, the conclusion of stadium works during the World Cup break, as well as the existing fixture schedule of both teams.

“These areas were the only possible options for achieving the required reduction whilst meeting the robust medical plan requested by the authorities.

“As the match is currently sold out, we have written to fans tonight in the affected areas offering the option of a full refund. We will do our utmost to relocate anyone who is impacted and has not chosen to accept a refund, prioritising Full and Cup Season Ticket holders.”