Manchester United's Premier League game with Liverpool on Sunday afternoon has been called off, after protesting fans got on the Old Trafford pitch.
Sunday's game was overshadowed early in the afternoon when protesting fans outside the Lowry Hotel in Manchester city centre, where the players stay ahead of games, caused disruption.
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A short time later, thousands of fans protesting outside Old Trafford kicked down a security barrier and pushed passed security and breached the stadium and got onto the pitch.
The original 4.30 pm kick off was delayed around half three, when team news would normally be announced, but no word of when kick off might take place was known.
Fans around the ground were dispersed before 5.30 pm but there were still some issues with fans around the hotel, with Liverpool players still waiting at their hotel as well.
At 5.36 pm, Sky Sports announced live on air that the game was called off, with a statement from United.
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"Following discussion between the Police, The Premier League, Trafford Council and the clubs, our match against Liverpool has been postponed due to safety and security considerations around the protest today. Discussions will now take place with the Premier League on a revised date for the fixture.
"Our fans are passionate about Manchester United, and we completely acknowledge the right to free expression and peaceful protest.
"However, we regret the disruption to the team and actions which put other fans, staff, and the police in danger. We thank the police for their support and will assist them in any subsequent investigations."
The Premier League also put out a separate statement, saying, "Following the security breach at Old Trafford, the Manchester United vs. Liverpool game has been postponed.
"This is a collective decision from the police, both clubs, the Premier League and local authorities.
"The security and safety of everyone at Old Trafford remains of paramount importance. We understand and respect the strength of feeling but condemn all acts of violence, criminal damage and trespass, especially given the associated COVID-19 breaches. Fans have many channels by which to make their views known, but the actions of a minority seen today have no justification.
"We sympathise with the police and stewards who had to deal with a dangerous situation that should have no place in football.
"The rearrangement of the fixture will be communicated in due course. "
The impact on the Premier League means that Manchester City can't yet be confirmed as champions this season.
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Following Pep Guardiola's side's win over Crystal Palace on Saturday, they would have been named champions if United had failed to beat Jurgen Klopp's team.
Solskjaer's side could have guaranteed their place in next season's Champions League with a win, and also damaged the Reds' chances of finishing in the top four.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Liverpool, Football, Manchester United, Premier League
