SEASON TICKET PRICE HIKE

Last updated : 09 April 2006 By Ed

Sunday Mirror:

Sunday Mirror Sport understand that there is likely to be rises of 10 per cent or more - even though Old Trafford's capacity will be increased to 76,000 by the start of next season as American billionare Glazer looks to raise cash to service the £500m debts he took out to buy the club last summer.

A United spokesman last night refuted suggestions that the highest-priced season-ticket could cost almost £900 next season. He said: "I have seen some of the figures being suggested and they are too high. Fans will know the exact cost when the prices are announced this week."

United came under fire from fan groups last season for significantly increasing the cost of watching the Reds.

Fans already face having to shell out £250 more for season tickets next season under a new scheme being introduced, which sees Champions League and cup games included in the cost. Season-ticket holders are unable to pick which cup games they want to watch and will be charged for all games.

NOTW:

The cheapest seats at the 76,000-capacity stadium will go up from £21 to £23 — a 9.5 per cent rise. Executive packages will rise by far more. Gill added: "I'm sure there will be comments. You put up prices and it won't be liked — that is a fact of life, whether it is gas prices, electricity prices or ticket prices.

"There are only seven Premier League clubs who sell tickets cheaper than we do."