A controlled explosion has been carried out at Old Trafford after a suspect package was found ahead of Manchester United’s match against Bournemouth.
Two stands – the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand and the Stretford End – were evacuated before the final game of the season and sniffer dogs brought in.
Kick-off, due at 15:00 BST, was delayed and shortly afterwards the match was abandoned on police advice.
An “operation red code” alert was heard over the tannoy at 14:40 BST and the players who were warming up left the field.
The club then announced: “Due to the discovery of a suspect package in the north-west quadrant of the ground, the match has been abandoned for today on police advice.
“People in the stadium are advised to remain in their seats while the forecourt is cleared of fans evacuated from the stadium. Further announcements will be made as soon as possible.”
Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward spoke to Premier League chairman Richard Scudamore about the game being called off, BBC Sport’s football correspondent Phil McNulty said.
The Premier League said it was looking to rearrange the match as soon as possible.
“The game will definitely need to be played but there are logistical issues that need to be resolved,” a statement read.
“However, they cannot even start to begin discussing them until the police have done what they need to do here.”
Assistant Chief Constable John O’Hare, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “We are doing everything we can to investigate this item as quickly as possible, however our priority is obviously to ensure the safety of everyone in the stadium and surrounding area.”
He said “military colleagues” were assisting, adding: “We don’t make these decisions lightly and we have done this today to ensure the safety of all those attending.”
Manchester City’s draw against Swansea on Saturday means Manchester United are effectively out of next season’s Champions League however, as City are three points clear of United and have a goal difference that is 18 better than their rivals across the city, reports the BBC.
