'A line has been crossed': Furious Utd fans will protest over controversial 'ticket tout' clampdown

Manchester United fans will protest before Sunday’s Old Trafford derby over the club’s controversial clampdown on ticket touts.

United have been accused of targeting innocent supporters and issuing bans without providing clear evidence, and protest group The 1958 say ‘a line has been crossed’.

They have urged fans to take part in a peaceful protest before Sunday’s game against Manchester City, gathering outside The Bishop Blaize pub near Old Trafford in a show of unity from 3pm.

A statement from the group read: ‘Manchester United supporter groups are being called upon to all stand together following reports of bans and season ticket sanctions without clear and compelling evidence always being presented.

‘For generations, match-going Reds have given their time, money and loyalty to Manchester United, home and away. That loyalty deserves to be treated with respect.

‘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.

‘All Reds. All groups. One voice. Show the evidence. Lift the bans.

‘Supporters are now facing serious sanctions which can remove their right to attend matches. We believe nobody should face such action without being told clearly what they are accused of and being shown the evidence used to justify it.

‘This goes beyond individual supporters or supporter groups. If this approach is allowed to stand, it should concern every match-going Red.

‘Whatever differences have existed between supporter groups in the past, this is a time to put them aside.

'A call has gone out for Manchester United supporter groups, fans’ forum representatives, supporters’ clubs and independent fan organisations to stand together on a simple principle: if there is clear, substantive evidence of serious wrongdoing or organised ticket touting, show it.

'No loyal supporter should be treated as guilty without being given a fair opportunity to understand and challenge the case against them.’