Manchester United release statement slamming Premier League decision, fans will love it

Manchester United have criticised the Premier League’s fixture schedule and offered alternative transport for their fans ahead of a nightmare Bank Holiday Monday trip.

The Reds will be travelling away to Crystal Palace on Monday 6 May for an 8:00pm (UK) kick-off.

It comes shortly after supporters were in London for a game against Chelsea in London at 8:15pm on a Thursday evening, which brings major travel difficulties for fans.

United have also been the team with the most Saturday night games in the Premier League this season, with all four of their 8:00pm kick-offs being away against Brentford, Newcastle, Sheffield United and Burnley.

The Premier League’s latest decision to send The Reds back to London for a game that supporters will find difficult to get home from has forced United to take action.

The club has confirmed that it will write to the Premier League to ask for “greater consideration” for match-going fans when agreeing on fixture schedules with broadcasters.

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Rick McGagh, Director of Fan Engagement, said: “The role that match-going fans play in the success of the Premier League should never be overlooked or taken for granted, and scheduling fixtures without consideration on the impact of the fans often provides barriers to attendance.”

It was added that the club will be working alongside kit sponsors Adidas to provide free transport for their supporters for this game.

“Manchester United has informed ticket holders for the Premier League match at Crystal Place that free coach travel will be provided to help fans inconvenienced by the late kick-off on bank holiday Monday,” the club wrote.

McGagh added: “We are pleased to work with adidas to offer a free solution on this occasion, but we share the frustrations of those travelling and recognise the sacrifices our incredible fans make to follow Manchester United.”

There will also be an additional benefit for the match-going supporters, “Fans will not only benefit from the free transport provided against Palace but will also be entered into a raffle to win a men’s first-team signed shirt in recognition of their incredible support.”

Good on United

This move from the club is certainly a positive one after the lack of consideration from the Premier League.

The fact that United have played the most 8:00pm Saturday night kick-offs, and them all being away from him, is somewhat disappointing, especially considering the pessimism around the new kick-off time when it was introduced.

Mid-week games are difficult for matchgoing fans, and even more so when they need to travel the length of the country for the game. Thankfully, this time, the club are supporting them.