We'll Bar Pitch Protest Thugs, Say Man United

MANCHESTER United fans found guilty of violence or causing criminal damage during Sunday’s pitch battles with police will be banned, the club said last night.

- Andy Russell

Those who just invaded Old Trafford may escape punishment.

A 28-year-old man was arrested and police are hunting for others after six officers were injured.

One suffered a fractured eye socket and another a “significant slash wound” to his face as bottles and cans were thrown from the crowd. A third officer had to be treated in hospital after being dragged and kicked.

Foreign Office minister James Cleverly said there was “no excuse” for the ugly scenes that led to the postponement of United’s game against Liverpool.

The club also denied claims that staff let supporters into Old Trafford during Sunday’s impassioned protests against United’s US owners, the Glazers.

Hundreds of fans poured into the stadium through an entrance in the southwest corner.