Manchester United Women are set to shatter their home attendance record when they return to WSL action against Aston Villa at Old Trafford this weekend.
With more than 30,000 tickets sold already, Saturday’s league clash against the Villains eclipses the record 20,241 who attended United's first WSL match played at Old Trafford in March, when United beat Everton 3-1.
United have enjoyed a remarkable start to the season that saw them embark on a perfect run of form until meeting Chelsea in early November. Marc Skinner's side sit third in the league heading into Saturday and just three points behind reigning champions Chelsea and with a game in hand.
The surge in demand for tickets makes all the more sense as it's the first match back since United's dramatic last-gasp victory over rivals Arsenal two weeks ago when late goals from Millie Turner and Alessia Russo claimed a sensational three points.
The Theatre of Dreams has done its part in preparing for the occasion, with a large banner displayed on the East Stand of the stadium profiling the United players with the words 'Change Is Here' in bold red lettering.
The decorations offer a mere glimpse into the atmosphere expected on Saturday. Forward Nikita Parris even issued a caution to Aston Villa earlier this week of the formidable climate in store upon their arrival.
United's away and home support has impressed significantly this season following the success of the European Championship, in which England's opening match was played within the Old Trafford confines in front of a sold-out crowd.
According to United's website, more tickets than ever before have been sold for United's matches at Leigh Sports Village, a signal of the appetite for women's football. It was United's away following that showed up in full voice against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and helped to will on their remarkable comeback.
And at Old Trafford on Saturday, the forceful support is set to be on full display with United's largest-ever crowd in attendance.
Speaking about the occasion, Polly Bancroft, Manchester United’s head of women’s football, said: “This game against Villa promises to be another special occasion as we continue to maintain our challenge at the top of the WSL and I know the players will be lifted by our fantastic supporters. “Manchester United, as the biggest club in the country, is determined to lead the way in the growth of the women’s game – both on and off the field. So it is really special to see the excitement that is building for this fixture and it again demonstrates how much progress the women’s game is making, not just here but across the country.”