Why Man Utd players are wearing black armbands against Southampton

Manchester United players will wear black armbands during their Premier League clash against Southampton on Sunday in a tribute to fan representative Ian Stirling, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 57.

Stirling was a founding member of the Fans' Advisory Board at United, and also played a key role as part of the Manchester United Supporters' Trust.

Posting a tribute on Twitter, journalist and United supporter Andy Mitten wrote: "Devastating news about Ian Stirling. He did so much for Manchester United fans for so long.

"A stalwart, he was central to safe standing returning to Old Trafford. Trusted, respected, credible, approachable, J stand and better liked than he ever knew.

"Rest in peace, Ian."

As a representative of MUST, Stirling was the Trust's Independent Supporter Liaison Officer, and also served as their representative on the Fans' Forum prior to founding the Advisory Board.

In a statement, the Trust said: "Everyone at MUST is heartbroken at the news that Ian Stirling, our much loved friend and colleague, has passed away.

"Ian was a truly great man. Warm, compassionate, generous and funny. As his closest friends and family will confirm, no-one enjoyed a joke more than Ian, and there are few in our fanbase who have inspired such widespread affection and respect."

Man Utd to wear black armbands

United players and staff will wear black armbands at Old Trafford today as 'a mark of respect for Ian's immense contribution'.

The club made the announcement in a message of condolence to Stirling's family and friends, which was posted on the club website this morning.

In addition, chief executive Richard Arnold penned his own words of tribute: "This is truly devastating news for all of us at the club who knew and worked with Ian.

"He was a towering figure within our fan community, loved and respected in equal measure. Ian was a relentless and unflinching advocate for the interests of fans, particularly match-goers, and we highly-valued the plain-speaking advice he provided.

"We send our sincere condolences to his wife, Lynn, daughter Lucy, and other loved ones."