Manchester United have announced that they are planning to implement safe standing at Old Trafford, and are carrying out a detailed and comprehensive study for the seat design.
In a bid to increase the atmosphere inside the stadium, United want to understand more about the process by which they incorporated rail seating into their stands and how the clubs manage those areas.
They have reportedly contacted Tottenham and Wolves – both of whom currently have designated ‘safe standing’ areas in their stadiums – to see how it is working for them (via the Mirror).
It is understood that the club are in favour of implementing a safe standing area inside Old Trafford, but will only take plans further when they can fully guarantee the safety of the spectators.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust said: “We have fought long and hard for safe standing for many years. We believe it will likely benefit atmosphere but also enhance spectator safety in areas where fans already persistently stand.
“As a supporters’ group, naturally supporter safety is our number one priority, so we hope that this added safety measure is put in place sooner rather than later.
“Every game that passes without rail seats in place to prevent fans at Old Trafford getting injured falling over the existing conventional seats is an opportunity missed to make the stadium a safer place.
“As the representatives of the people most affected we’d welcome dialogue with the safety authorities to offer our own insight and first hand experience.” (via the Mirror)
Despite the supporters’ trust being in favour of the move, plenty of United fans think that the club should address matters on the pitch before making plans off of it…
They should implement something in row Z so that people are safe from rashford’s free kicks
— MUFCPLUG (@mufcplug) September 22, 2019
How about implementing a style of play first lads?
— ً (@Sarrista__) September 22, 2019
What about the leaking roof? What about the stadium that needs maintenance repair ASAP??? What about investing in a team that would excite a safe standing section? What about putting the United fans where the away fans sit to generate more noise?
— Sir Geezer Gaz (@GeezerGaz1) September 22, 2019
Usually the briefing about improvements to OT happens a day or two after a defeat. We’re getting in early.
— Sibs (@SibsMUFC) September 22, 2019
Unnecessary. Focus on the playing body. Always thinking how to get money for that stupid family
— gerald (@geraldBlind14) September 22, 2019
I don’t want to be safe I want to win the league 😭
— 🔰#GlazersOut 🔰 (@D33nW) September 22, 2019
What..that is what you do after not wining an away game since last 8 months?
Joke of a club.— Jay (@anirudhjay10) September 23, 2019
Wow coooooooooll
— Me_daVincii™ (@IamMrVankie) September 22, 2019
United fans, what are your thoughts on a safe standing area at Old Trafford? Let us know in the comments!
