Man Utd 'will extend singing section at Old Trafford by at least 2,000 fans'

Manchester United are increasing the singing section at Old Trafford by at least 2,000 fans to further improve the atmosphere inside the stadium.

Old Trafford witnessed one of its rowdiest occasions for some time on Sunday when United beat City 2-0 in the 182nd Manchester derby.

The signing section in the Stretford End has played its part in creating a better atmosphere inside the ground – with United also hoping to add rail seating in future – and the club now intends to extend it beyond the players' tunnel.

It was among a number of measures announced by United on Monday morning which include freezing season ticket prices for the ninth season in a row.

Group managing director Richard Arnold said: 'I want to place on record our appreciation of the hard work and dedication from the organisers of the atmosphere section. The phenomenal support the team get has been taken to a new level by this successful initiative.

'We will be seeking to build on this next season by extending this section of the Stretford End out towards the south-west corner, increasing the allocation to at least 2,000 supporters.

'We have worked closely with fan groups and through the fans' forum to help achieve this shared goal of reviving the Stretford End to its traditional status as the heartbeat of our matchday support.

'We have also submitted a proposal to the local authority to trial a rail seating area within the stadium.

'Our belief is that the introduction of rail seating would enhance spectator safety in areas of the stadium where, as with other clubs, we have seen examples of persistent standing. We hope to have news on our application soon.'

United have also announced plans to relocate the family section to premium seats in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand and will complete an £11m project to install state-of-the-art accessible facilities for disabled supporters.

Arnold added: 'We do appreciate that there is an element of change for some fans as we reorganise where groups are based within the layout of the stadium and thank them for their co-operation.

'Families who move to the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand will hopefully enjoy the view from their new seats in what is a premium part of the stadium.

'As Old Trafford celebrates its 110-year anniversary, these investments demonstrate our commitment to maintaining its status as one of Europe's leading football stadiums whilst preserving its unique and iconic character.'