Old Trafford | 76,000 | 61m

[andysimo123]

Since loads of threads have gone here my contribution.

Pics from mid June.
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev1.jpg
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev2.jpg
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev4.jpg
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev5.jpg
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev6.jpg
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev7.jpg

[nzmanc]

Never knew Ricky Gervais was a utd fan (pic 2)

[Isaac Newell]

Under the Boardwalk.....

[Chorltonred]

I have a good image of the works from today if someone can tell me how to post it. :?

[jrb]

Download your pictures to your computer, go to photobucket, click browse, click on the picture, press submit, let it upload, click img, copy, paste on to the thread and submit reply!

[andysimo123]

Good Good get them up.

[Chorltonred]

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b64/Chorltonred/f70b945c.jpg

Hope it worked!

[Chorltonred]

So it did - thanks jrb.

Both corners seem to be progressing at the same speed, but this one is much clearer due to the absence of trees!

[jef]

Incredibly quick. Incredible.

[ManchesterISwonderful]

Inside.(courtesy of Gavin.)

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b255/Tony-Stark/Cornerextension1.jpg

[Chorltonred]

Jef - I thin one reason for the speed is that they put a lot of the groundworks and foundations in place last pre-season in anticipation of getting planning permission.

Also the contracors are probably on some healthy bonus for a quick finish. If I recall correctly the Stretford End extension was completed almost six months early. If this happens here we could have some extra seats by the new year.

[Gavin]

http://www.unitedlinks.co.uk/neq2.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b64/Chorltonred/f70b945c.jpg
For comparison. Probably half way there or more for both the concrete cores and the steel frame

[Sikario]

When is this likely to be completed and will there be areas in the stadium where fans cannot sit during games, because of all the scaffolding and construction work?

[Gavin]

I reckon that at some point it will be dangerous to sit on the upper stands at the sides because at some point they will surely have to get the sides off so that the new and old bits can be joined. I would imagine a column or two of seats at each side will be lost if not more. United would surely wait for a gap in games or something to minimise disruption though.

[Gavin]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b255/Tony-Stark/Cornerextension1.jpg

looking at this in the context of what has now been built (three levels) I think that what I first thought was a small second tier and then a large third tier may actually be the current lower tier not fully shown and then a second tier just like the one behind the goals.
Look at where the steel comes upto on this pic:
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b64/Chorltonred/f70b945c.jpg

and then look at where that red section is in relation to the inside:

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev1.jpg


and tell me what you think.

What we really need is another pic from inside. First home game isnt far away though I suppose.

[ManchesterISwonderful]

The corporate stuff will be built on that. Apparently it'll house the largest amount of corporate facilities in the whole stadium. Which would explain the cost.

Not sure I like it. Thing is we'll have a complete miss-match. The North, corners, Strettie (and K stand) will all look different.

[andysimo123]

The first home game is next week I'll try and get some pics. They have shut the corners and the third tier for next weeks game because of the work but they will be back open for the first prem game of the season.

[Gavin]

Have they not shut the third because they've hiked the ticket prices and not enough people will want to go to a crap qualifying game against crap opponents for £30 plus. Wouldnt look good for the glazer camp if it didnt sell out but if you reduce the capacity it might sell out and your alright then?!?!

[andysimo123]

Page out season ticket holder info book.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0480.jpg

[andysimo123]

Got some pics of tonights game coming up.

[andysimo123]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/Manchester%20United/DSCF0489.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/Manchester%20United/DSCF0488.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/Manchester%20United/DSCF0486.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/Manchester%20United/DSCF0485.jpg

[Gavin]

Andysimo, on the bvelow pic the roof is gone but on your new ones it seems to be back!?!? Is it a temporary type contaption thats in the photos do you know?
Any progress (or pics) from the outside id you see?

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a252/WeasteDevil/OTdev5.jpg

Cheers.

[Metrolink]

From inside it looks like the new roofs are temporary plastic things.

On some internal scaffolding that is suspended from the roof of North and West/East stands

[andysimo123]

I got right under the new stand but didnt take any pics because it was busy and I aint getting my cam robbed. The roof is just temporary plastic sheets that you would use for them big wedding tent things.

[cnb]

Redevelopment coming on, think consturction is further on on the west corner but couldn't be bothered to walk round to get a pic.

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b60/cnb17780/IMAG0020.jpg

[caw123]

A couple of photos from today
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/2816OldTrafford_pic7.jpg
http://www.skyscrapernews.com/images/pics/2816OldTrafford_pic8.jpg

[EarlyBird]

I suppose I should put these in here too then...

http://www.eb.cx/img/ssc/manchester/2005-09-03/ot-1.jpg

http://www.eb.cx/img/ssc/manchester/2005-09-03/ot-2.jpg

http://www.eb.cx/img/ssc/manchester/2005-09-03/ot-3.jpg

http://www.eb.cx/img/ssc/manchester/2005-09-03/ot-4.jpg

[Sparks]

Wow, progress really is rapid. Didn't expect the steel rakers to be going on until november time.

[andysimo123]

Old Trafford 'UK's favourite football ground'

Friday, 2nd September 2005, 07:56
LIFE STYLE EXTRA (UK) - Manchester United's Old Trafford has been voted the favourite football stadium in the country by fans.

The so-called 'Theatre of Dreams' just pipped local rival Manchester City's new City Of Manchester Stadium which was runner up in the poll of fans.

Next came Newcastle United's St James' Park, Reading's Madjeski Stadium and Sunderland's Stadium of Light as the venues supporters most enjoy visiting.

The grounds of Bolton, Chelsea, Derby, Hull and Aston Villa completed the Top 10 favourites in the study by Drivers Jonas, the property consultancy which commissioned the survey of more than 3,000 supporters.

However Hull City's KC Stadium is the best overall for comfort, view and ease of access followed by Sunderland, Derby, Reading and Southampton which edged into the top five best venues just ahead of Arsenal in sixth with Manchester United relegated to 13th.

Geoff Aucock, partner at Drivers Jonas and head of the company's sports division, said: "When fans vote with their heads the newer-build stadia are hard to beat, but when it comes to their hearts the nation is clearly very fond of Manchester United and its Theatre of Dreams.

"The design of stadia in the eyes of the fans is not a simple matter of paying the most for the best stadium.

"Stadia built as international sports venues and iconic design statements such as The City of Manchester Stadium can cost more than £3,000 a seat to build whereas a club stadium with good facilities, such as Sunderland's Stadium of Light, can be built for under £1,000 per seat and still be worthy of hosting England internationals and be loved by its fans."

When it comes to food, football clubs are not known for their culinary prowess except of course in East Anglia where at Delia Smith's Norwich City you'd expect to find top quality fayre.

However in the study the Canaries just managed second place in the football food league as they were surprisingly
pipped to top spot by Bristol Rovers, which fans - both home and away - voted as the best club for food in terms of quality, value for money and service. The most overpriced food, according to fans, is to be found at Reading.

Despite coming best overall, Old Trafford didn't even make the Top 10 in the toilet league. Fans were asked to rate grounds for the quantity and quality of their toilets.

Hull came top followed by Huddersfield, Southampton and Blackburn, with Reading, Hull and Celtic scoring best for quantity. Bottom of the toilet league were Crystal Palace, Luton and Portsmouth.

Value for money in the club shop was another issue studied. Surprisingly, most fans reported their club shop to have "reasonable" prices rather than being "too expensive". The best shop for the quality of the range of goods was Reading, followed by Chelsea, Rangers and Hull, while best for prices were Blackburn, Rangers and Bradford.

The study also found almost two-thirds (62 per cent) of fans would prefer limited club funds to be spent on a stadium with a fantastic atmosphere whist 32 per cent would rather see the money spent on players.

Just five per cent said the most important thing was for their stadium to look good and would prefer to see money spent on developing an iconic stadium instead.

And in what may be good news for clubs as they look for funds to improve their squads, nearly half (43 per cent) of all fans would be prepared to pay for quality, with a fifth prepared to pay as much as £10 more per match, in return for better facilities.

Mr Aucock added: "Our study clearly shows that fans' enjoyment is not just measured in terms of the quality of the football, it is about the whole match day experience. Fans appreciate good stadia facilities and a fantastic atmosphere and are prepared to pay for it too.

"The report will certainly make interesting reading for club chairmen who have to weigh up what best to invest in."
The two Manchster grounds in the Two top places. :)

[andysimo123]

http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=98077&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=98076&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=98075&mediatype=2
Pics from the United website taken today.

[jrb]

THEY'VE GOT THE BIGGEST ICE RINK IN THE WORLD(Andy! ;) )


It's Cold Trafford

http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/ContentResources/761.$plit/C_17_Articles_175352_BodyWeb_Detail_0_Image.jpg


YOU'LL have to get your skates on if you fancy a trip to Old Trafford this Christmas.

A £400,000 ice skating rink is to be built in the shadow of the East Stand, overlooked by the statue of Sir Matt Busby.

The reinforced plastic dome, which will house the rink, will open its doors to skaters on November 26 , for six weeks.

The idea has already proved a success at Hampton Court Palace and Greenwich, and is being introduced at the Tower of London and Windsor.

The transparent dome protects the skaters from the elements but will given them the experience of being out in the open air.

Attendances at Hampton Court and Greenwich have averaged between 70,000 to 80,000 people over similar periods.

Paul Savident, spokesman for organisers PWR Events, said: "The idea has proved hugely popular so far. It combines the charm of skating outdoors at a terrific time of year, with the backdrop of historic scenery.

"Old Trafford is known to millions of soccer fans across the world and was deliberately selected to join an elite handful of venues to play host to skating rinks.

"Based on previous experience, people find it very exciting to skate on real ice at Christmas and New Year, and tickets tend to be snapped up quite quickly."

The dome will also house a café.

Manchester launched Britain's first public outdoor ice skating rink nine years ago when Albert Square was transformed for Christmas season.

The region has been without a permanent ice rink since the closure of Altrincham Ice Rink two years ago.

It is hoped to open a temporary rink until a new permanent ice venue can be opened - hopefully in about four years time.

Booking details for the Old Trafford ice rink can be found at : www.manutdicerink.com

[andysimo123]

Robbed from the United website.
4th October
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=102745&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=102744&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=102743&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=102742&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=98077&mediatype=2

[Metrolink]

Major terrible news to break at OT in the next week or so - cannot go any further.

[andysimo123]

Major terrible news to break at OT in the next week or so - cannot go any further.
What you on about?

[eddyk]

Will this be done for the start of the 2006/2007 season.

I remember in the OT 76,000 thread in the world foums someone said it won be finished untill 2007....but looking at the pic, it looks like it will be done within half a year.

[Metrolink]

eddk - open for start of next season.

[Irish Blood English Heart]

whats the news then metrolink its been a week?

[Metrolink]

The rape allegations - heard about them just before they made the papers, at the time it seemed that the story was going to be much bigger than it turned out.

Has the player been publically named yet?

If so you'd realise the added 'badness' from a United point of view, especially since the lad has had a load of shit to put up with recently.





Also, taken from RI...

I went to see the 'Quadrant Sales Team' today. There is a 'Fine Dining' facility next season, including food, drink & valet parking, that they are asking £7500 per seat per season for. It made £45,000 for an 8 seat box sound like a bargain (all of which have, apparently, been sold). No mention of a 'deposit' system as operated in Tampa Bay or the new Wembley (i.e. you pay a £1000 deposit for the right to buy a ticket for the next 10 years, which you then lose if you don't take up your ticket for whatever reason)

I think we'll be having a couple of seats in the Exec. Lounge, £2800 inc. food, due to bastard customers taking our other seats.

Apparently there is an announcement being made regarding STs & LMTBs in the quadrants on Friday.

[Irish Blood English Heart]

Mr.Rooney? Now that would be interesting....

I get the bus past OT everyday, and even though Im far from a Utd fan its interesting to see the work in progress, esp the huge iron square hanging from the crane in the SW corner.

[Sir Miles Platting]

Mr.Rooney? Now that would be interesting....

I get the bus past OT everyday, and even though Im far from a Utd fan its interesting to see the work in progress, esp the huge iron square hanging from the crane in the SW corner.
Was the Utd fan sat at the other end of the bus then? :)

[Metrolink]

IBEH - no it isn't Rooney, but I'm not going to have a 20 questions quiz to work out who it is.

If it ain't public knowledge I am not going to be the person to tell you I'm afraid, anyway, it's all died down, and it's unlikely that any prosecution will follow apparently.
Lets leave it at that eh?

[Irish Blood English Heart]

Yeah fair play Im not really too bothered anyway we've been here before a hundred times, just a way to fill the hours at work. Im sure if I wanted to it would be easy enough to find out on a football site anyway.

Tara

[Isaac Newell]

It's a non story. What makes everyone think the player is English ?

[Jerv]

Thanks for that Isaac. Ronaldo it is then.

[Irish Blood English Heart]

hahaha

[caw123]

Someone mentioned something bad about Ronaldo to me. Only just twigged it was related to Metrolinks musings.

[9462]

now lets not make this a football disussion. In fact why dont i just make a new thread for football.

[dgnr8]

It's quite obviously Rio.

[crush2000]

Thought I'd share this photo I took on Saturday....

http://tinypic.com/ej8py0.jpg

[dgnr8]

United abandon casino plans
Thursday October 13 2005

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Manchester United have axed their plans to build a casino at Old Trafford.

In May, United joined forces with US-based gaming giant Las Vegas Sands Corp and put forward proposals to redevelop a site adjacent to the Theatre of Dreams. A luxury five-star hotel, restaurants, a health club and sports bar were all set to be part of the complex, which would have been dominated by the new casino.

But, with Blackpool virtually certain to be awarded the only super casino franchise available once Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell had to hastily amend her proposals to get them through Parliament before the General Election, United officials knew it could be years before permission to proceed with the project was granted.

Faced with such a lengthy delay, they have opted not to tie up the resources, allowing them to use the land for alternative ventures at some point in the future.

United have stressed the decision had nothing to do with Malcolm Glazer's £790million takeover, which was not completed until after the original casino plans were drawn up.

"Whilst we maintain strong relationships with both LVSC and Trafford Council, we have decided jointly with LVSC not to progress the proposal at this stage," confirmed commercial director Andy Anson.

[pookey]

Sorry if this has been covered before, but does anyone know whether the South Stand will be developed in the future, what feasability studies have been undertaken etc?

[Noostairz]

It's quite obviously Rio.

you reckon that's why steven gordon (eric's son) dropped him? i thought it was too good to be true that he'd drop him on form alone, the spineless little eel.

cheers for the pic, crush. if only they'd played with as much enthusiasm on saturday!

[Metrolink]

Would you all please stp trying to guess who it was - wouldn't be surprised if you are libelling some people here.

If you really want to know have a look at a football web site, otherwise, lets move on.

[dgnr8]

I reckon we're just as entitled to chat about it with our internet friends as we would be as to down the pub. It's not like anybody's bunged a "SSC.com opinion - " before their guess.

I see what you're saying like. But if we're censored from friendly banter then what's the sodding point in anything?

[Metrolink]

the problem here is people are suggesting that x y or z could have raped someone, would you like it if this was said about you - people are randomly picking names out of a hat.

If you were Ronney, Rio or Ronaldo (the 3 names mentioned in this thread) would you like to see something like this associating you with raping someone?

All I'm saying is be very careful and consider what you are saying before clicking on post it.

[Jerv]

Rooney, Rio or Ronaldo you say? Sweepstake anyone? I'll have the young overpaid, undereducated one with the attitude.

[Sir Miles Platting]

Rooney, Rio or Ronaldo you say? Sweepstake anyone? I'll have the young overpaid, undereducated one with the attitude.
Well..... that just about covers 70% of the premiership........ ;)

[Irish Blood English Heart]

hahhaha

[Griff]

Rooney, Rio or Ronaldo you say? Sweepstake anyone? I'll have the young overpaid, undereducated one with the attitude.

No, I'd guess Ronaldo, given what Metrolink said previously about someone who's "been through a lot recently". (Ronaldo's dad died a few weeks ago.)

The thing is, it's probably bollocks. If I had a quid for every time a footballer was wrongly accused of rape/sexual assault/general buggery I'd be a moderately wealthy man. Although of course, I imagine the vast majority of girls would indeed run a mile at an offer of a shag from the not-at-all-good-looking and not-at-all-rather-wealthy Cristiano Ronaldo.

By the way, if anyone's worried about libellous comments, just put "allegedly" somewhere. After all, it always worked for Have I Got News For You.

[dgnr8]

Would our Griff happened to have written into the football365 mailbox over the past couple of days?

[Sir Miles Platting]

Would our Griff happened to have written into the football365 mailbox over the past couple of days?
I think you mean ABU 365 dgnr8......

[Griff]

Would our Griff happened to have written into the football365 mailbox over the past couple of days?

He might have done :) I mean, you have to admit, Wembley was a shite stadium.

Sir Miles, yes, I agree, the anti-United (or more particularly pro-Arsenal) stance of that site pisses me off a little, but some of their content is quite good.

[caw123]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4357914.stm

Nothing to keep to yourselves now.

[WeasteDevil]

:ohno:

[andysimo123]

Robbed once again from the united site.
19th October.
East Stand
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=108549&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=108548&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=108547&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=108550&mediatype=2

[terryfied]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4357914.stm

Nothing to keep to yourselves now.

He's getting hammered on the Liverpool forum, not 'cos of the rape allegations; that doesn't seem to bother them, but because he's a Man Utd player, how fucking sad is that?!.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=248988&page=5&pp=20

[andysimo123]

He's getting hammered on the Liverpool forum, not 'cos of the rape allegations; that doesn't seem to bother them, but because he's a Man Utd player, how fucking sad is that?!.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=248988&page=5&pp=20
We're not that suprised. Every scouser, on every fourm ever made will be talking about it. Also every other fan who doesnt like United will be talking about it. Also every United fan will be talking about. So basicly everybody will be talking about it and everybody will be slagging him off.

[terryfied]

We're not that suprised. Every scouser, on every fourm ever made will be talking about it. Also every other fan who doesnt like United will be talking about it. Also every United fan will be talking about. So basicly everybody will be talking about it and everybody will be slagging him off.

I'll slag him off *IF* he's found guilty.

[scouserdave]

He's getting hammered on the Liverpool forum, not 'cos of the rape allegations; that doesn't seem to bother them, but because he's a Man Utd player, how fucking sad is that?!.

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=248988&page=5&pp=20
Terry,
I laughed at one of the comments and made a smartarse remark, but seriously, I hope the allegations are unfounded. Hurts me say, but he's a good looking lad, earning tons of money. He doesn't need to force himself on a girl. He's also just lost his oul fella. He must be going through some shit at the moment. :bash:

[terryfied]

Terry,
I laughed at one of the comments and made a smartarse remark, but seriously, I hope the allegations are unfounded. Hurts me say, but he's a good looking lad, earning tons of money. He doesn't need to force himself on a girl. He's also just lost his oul fella. He must be going through some shit at the moment. :bash:

It wasn't your reply I was upset with Dave. I was somewhat surprised by some of your fellow Liverpudlians (who came across as very immature may I add) who seem to be taking the opputunity out of a very serious allegation to simply have a pop at Man Utd.

[Scarecrow]

You mean like that Scouse Blunther fella in the UK Skybar? :? What a horrible Liverpudlian bastard he is...

I seriously doubt that this story has any real basis, other than said player was in same building as supposed victim. I don't like him because he's a whinging, diving cunt. Nothing more sinister than that.

[scouserdave]

Fulham v Man U, 1964 is currently on Sky Sports 1. Bobby Charlton's Scrapbook. I think they're showing it again, due to Johnny Haynes passing away a few days ago.

[terryfied]

You mean like that Scouse Blunther fella in the UK Skybar? :? What a horrible Liverpudlian bastard he is...

What Blunther said.....

I hope he gets the shit kicked out of him.

One way or another.

(I don't like him )

What you said.....

Not sure. The Mancs were talkng about it on the Sold Trafford thread last week. Must've been a child or invalid, because I can't see that scrawney chinless rat overpowering any woman.

Big, big difference there bunnyman.

[andysimo123]

What Blunther said.....



What you said.....



Big, big difference there bunnyman.
What are you talking about it in here for. Theres a thread in the sky bar for the Ronaldo story.

[Scarecrow]

Yep. I doubt he did it, and gave reasons why. Blunther didn't. :)

[terryfied]

Fulham v Man U, 1964 is currently on Sky Sports 1. Bobby Charlton's Scrapbook. I think they're showing it again, due to Johnny Haynes passing away a few days ago.

Two great players, and I was fortunate to see them both. :)

[terryfied]

Yep. I doubt he did it, and gave reasons why. Blunther didn't. :)

I did ask him bunnyman. I'm waiting for a reply. :)

Anyway I'm leaving it there, otherwise it will only become a pointless slagging match, agreed?

[terryfied]

What are you talking about it in here for. Theres a thread in the sky bar for the Ronaldo story.

I'm finished. :)

[Scarecrow]

Okay then. Me too. :)

[dgnr8]

Ahhh. United get slagged off by the scousers, time for World War 3. Yet the few City fans on here have to put up with constant fucking smart arse remarks from the rag lot, and that's fair game.

How about whoever's upset by the scousers mocking Ronaldo try this - fucking yourself with a hypocrite stick. "wuuhhh, wuhhhh, but it's not the same thing". Like fuck. You lot dish it out like there's no tomorrow then go "oh dgnr8, I thought you were above this sort of thing" or some other condescending piss. Yet wooo, the shoe's on the other foot, let's bring out that victim mentality that United fans of the mid to late 90s dusted off and adopted. Fucking bunch of arse.

[Chorltonred]

There's no point trying to fight the natural order. Evidenced by:

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/3084/cityposter0ok.jpg

[andysimo123]

Class lol

[WeasteDevil]

:lol:

[dgnr8]

Heh, now that's cool.

[scouserdave]

Ouch! :)

[Metrolink]

right, the next gem...

there are strong rumours that 'chochlate orange' has been dabbling with drugs and may have failed a drugs test, however, since this would cause the FA serious problems and is being ignored.

[Irish Blood English Heart]

Ooh Mr.Brown you naughty boy.

[chasedwar]

you mean Wez 'nearly' brown.

that fook all, what about Ronaldo and the rape accusation.

I remember a girl at college who had slept with Wez and what she said has stuck in my mind and come back to haunt me every now and then.

she said that............. 'he has a really nice nice clean dick, bell end had no cheese what so ever'

I thought, (after the initial shock) thats abit too much detail for my liking, and then i thought, why who the hell does she usually see... give BJ to tramps.

I guess the moral of the story is.....
theres no excuse for a smelly willy.

[Metrolink]

Not Wez, wrong team.

Anyway, the statement from Ronnies agent, (will not be reported by the media I bet)...

"Subsequent to the news bulletins made public earlier today, on tv stations and on the on-line versions of some news papers, concerning the alleged detention of Cristiano Ronaldo in Manchester for police questioning in an ongoing investigation into an alleged rape, the following must be made public: - First and foremost, the detention for questioning that the media have referred is a formality of British Law that does not exist as such in Portuguese law. The truth is that Cristiano Ronaldo had already agreed with the police authorities to be questioned on this matter today and for such purpose went to the police precinct of his own free will. - In fact, since the events under investigation supposedly took place on October 2nd, the amount of time that has lapsed since such date clearly demonstrates that today’s questioning is hardly an extraordinary or urgent measure and is in fact a common step in the ongoing investigations. - In relation to the matter under investigation, the accusation of rape that has been made against Cristiano Ronaldo is totally and categorically repudiated. As the investigations will demonstrate, these charges are not based on any credible facts and are clearly the product of the imagination and fantasy of the young lady, in an attempt to profit by dropping the charges in exchange for a considerable sum; - Symptomatic of the above is the fact that the young ladies involved only brought charges after their attempts to sell their story to British newspapers failed; - Equally relevant is the fact that these charges were initially made by two young ladies, one of whom has already dropped charges, for no compensation whatsoever, due to the blatantly obvious lack of grounds. In any event, it should be additionally stated that the player’s lawyers entrusted with this matter, James Chapman e Carlos Osório de Castro, have been instructed not only to accompany the proceedings but also to legally react against any abusive attempt to profit from this matter. Porto, October 19th, 2005 Jorge Mendes

[terryfied]

There's no point trying to fight the natural order. Evidenced by:

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/3084/cityposter0ok.jpg

Now they are the kind of insults I prefer..... :)

[terryfied]

right, the next gem...

there are strong rumours that 'chochlate orange' has been dabbling with drugs and may have failed a drugs test, however, since this would cause the FA serious problems and is being ignored.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/articles/PA_SPOA2092311129809829A?source=PA%20Feed&ct=5

[Irish Blood English Heart]

Footballer In Drugs Shame
Thu 20 Oct, 1:09 PM

UK Sport have announced that a footballer has tested positive for cocaine and is currently serving a six-month suspension.
Advertisement

The player, who falls under the jurisdiction of the Football Association, began his ban on August 19 and will not be allowed to return until February 18.

The news was only revealed by UK Sport and the FA have refused to identify the player, his club, or the level at which he plays.

An FA spokesman said: "The policy is not to name and shame.

"We deal with a balance of sanction and rehabilitation wherever possible."

[dgnr8]

Either Terry Henry (which I'd doubt) or John Terry (which is pretty bob on in my book).

[Sir Miles Platting]

In the real world it would be Ronaldo getting raped. I think the filth have got this one completely wrong....

[Chorltonred]

United are issuing 7,000 more season tickets next year and doing away with the ST/LMTB distinction.

Will be 50,000 STs (and I think that excludes execs but I can't be sure).

From the fishal site.

[TheFly]

Either Terry Henry (which I'd doubt) or John Terry (which is pretty bob on in my book).

er? Ban started in August so...

[andysimo123]

United are issuing 7,000 more season tickets next year and doing away with the ST/LMTB distinction.

Will be 50,000 STs (and I think that excludes execs but I can't be sure).

From the fishal site.
Thats the best news I've heard in a long time.

[jrb]

Stretford! :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture053don.jpg

[Mez]

Google to sponsor Manchester United soccer club?

By Andy McCue
Special to CNET News.com

Published: November 28, 2005, 11:13 AM PST

Manchester United is in talks with a number of global high-tech giants, including Google, about replacing Vodafone as its shirt sponsor, according to reports.

Vodafone announced last week that it is ending its four-year deal to have its name on the British soccer club's shirts two years early, at the end of the current soccer season.

The club's new owners, the U.S.-based Glazer family, are now believed to be in advanced talks with some of the biggest global brands--many of them from the high-tech industry--about replacing the cellular service provider. The Glazers won a controversial $1.4 billion (800 million pounds) takeover bid for the internationally known soccer club earlier this year.

In other news:
Cost questions dog
Blu-ray DVD
Hard-disk jockey spins electricity
Google: What you get for $400 a share
Gadgets and more for holiday shoppers
CNET's Holiday Helpdesk: Still have questions?
Vodafone's deal is set at 9 million pounds, or about $15.5 million. Some of the names reportedly thought to be willing to top that include Google, IBM and Yahoo, according to a report this weekend in British newspaper The Observer.

The paper, citing sources in London's financial center, said the Vodafone brand is not well-known in the U.S. and the termination of the deal gives the Glazer family the opportunity to bag a bigger global brand that will help give Manchester United a higher profile in America.

Two of the nontech brands believed to be in talks with the soccer club are Coca-Cola and Levi Strauss.

Remember the fear of the Coca-cola stadium?

[eddyk]

Me and EarlyBird had many arguments over this.

Which will be done first....Wembley or This?

[Gavin]

I reckon this will. Its substantially there already.

[terryfied]

I reckon this will. Its substantially there already.

Taken today.......

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c109/terryfied/OT.jpg

[Manc Guy]

Looking good isnt it...

[jrb]

A winner for Cold Trafford

FANS are getting their skates on to visit Manchester United's new star attraction - an ice rink outside Old Trafford.

The skating rink is the centrepiece of a winter attraction open until January. The 750 square-metre rink, inside a transparent marquee, can take 240 skaters an hour.

Club spokesman Karl Evans said: "We believe it will be a great day out. I'm sure most of us have had a go at ice skating at some time and made fools of ourselves. It's great fun."

A one-hour sessions costs £9 for adults, £7 for children, and a family ticket for four is £28.

[andysimo123]

A winner for Cold Trafford

FANS are getting their skates on to visit Manchester United's new star attraction - an ice rink outside Old Trafford.

The skating rink is the centrepiece of a winter attraction open until January. The 750 square-metre rink, inside a transparent marquee, can take 240 skaters an hour.

Club spokesman Karl Evans said: "We believe it will be a great day out. I'm sure most of us have had a go at ice skating at some time and made fools of ourselves. It's great fun."

A one-hour sessions costs £9 for adults, £7 for children, and a family ticket for four is £28.
ITS A RIP OFF

[Northbeach]

£9 for a quick skate, £6 for a sausage and a beer £5 for a go on the wheel? £21 I make that.
It's icy outside - a trip to Lidl for your sausage and tinnies on a rusty old 42 Bullocks will do the same for around £4 total.
...hang on a sec - it's that ba*tard tiny tim tapping on me windows (and he's a freakin muppet for some reason?).
Shadda's...on me lungs?

[Manc Guy]

It's icy outside - a trip to Lidl for your sausage and tinnies on a rusty old 42 Bullocks will do the same for around £4 total.
...hang on a sec - it's that ba*tard tiny tim tapping on me windows (and he's a freakin muppet for some reason?).
Shadda's...on me lungs?

You oldies talk some tripe haha...I so oftenly get confused as to the actual point being made :lol: To many refrences to the past? Before my time?

bah dunno :) Maybe your just weird...

[Sir Miles Platting]

9 quid to splinter a coccyx bone on the ice?....no thanks. That's about 6 pints of Holts mild in the New Grove. Did I say Holts mild? Fuck it wheres me skates I'll risk me coccyx... :cheers:

[andysimo123]

Pics from todays game.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0879.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0878.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0877.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0876.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0875.jpg

[andysimo123]

30th november
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136000&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136005&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136001&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136006&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136002&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136003&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136004&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136007&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136008&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136009&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136010&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136011&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=136012&mediatype=2

[homesweethome]

why does such a small club need such a big ground?

or is it to accomodate all those rugby fans that regularly attend finals there?

great progress though, it is going to spectacular when it is finished. any plans to rebuild the other side? may look a bit odd! or is it cos of the rail way line? could always build above it!

or jus knock the whole stadium that would be my solution, its going to look silly other wise!

[Craig]

We've had the debate on here before about the potential development of the south stand with some thinking it will happen and others saying it won't due to the railway line and houses. I agree it will look a little lop sided - maybe that's a way of applying pressure to complete the remainder which would leave a stadium with a capacity of around 94,000. Having said that I'm never convinced there's a real long term plan for expanding OT - if there was the corners that are being built now would surely have been tackled with the construction of the west and east stands with all the cost savings that would have brought.

[homesweethome]

i think the way OT and other football grounds have been developed is what gives a ground its character! im not one for clubs building new grounds and moving away from where they have always been based! i much prefer clubs to redevlop what they have got! OT has changed loads over the years but it has always remaind OT and thats what i like about it!

as i say its jus a shame that the team that plays there!

[andysimo123]

i think the way OT and other football grounds have been developed is what gives a ground its character! im not one for clubs building new grounds and moving away from where they have always been based! i much prefer clubs to redevlop what they have got! OT has changed loads over the years but it has always remaind OT and thats what i like about it!

as i say its jus a shame that the team that plays there!
Old Trafford was built by that team, if that team never existed OT would never have even been built.

[homesweethome]

Im not doubting that! you are Probably right, but can i not just really like the stadium and hate the team at the same time, well not hate more a case of not my favourite team? or is that not allowed? All im saying is extending stadiums is what gives them there character!

[LocksRocks]

I think a decision on further expansion will wait for some time, until a couple of seasons after Man U break away from the current TV deal and sell their own rights to home games. This could be 7/8 years. I don't think attendences would fall like they have in Italy, but the ability to watch any game on TV will have an effect.

[Jerv]

Im not doubting that! you are Probably right, but can i not just really like the stadium and hate the team at the same time, well not hate more a case of not my favourite team? or is that not allowed? All im saying is extending stadiums is what gives them there character!

Hate or envy? ;) Surely you don't want all these southerners having the best players and the best stadia? If so you havn't met monkey on these forums yet!

[inquisitor57]

Oh dear, I wonder how badly going out of Europe will affect Uniteds finances. At least Glazers got his just deserts.

[eddyk]

Oo, Cladding is up.


Very nice.

[retep68]

Oh dear, I wonder how badly going out of Europe will affect Uniteds finances. At least Glazers got his just deserts.

Sadly not too much (I'd happily take being knocked out if it encouraged glazer to fuck off). Papers and TV quote 10-15 million, but that's based on reaching the final. More like 1-2 million for not getting through to the knockout stages. And going off recent seasons it was unlikely we'd have got much further than the next round :(

[Longsight M13]

Sadly not too much (I'd happily take being knocked out if it encouraged glazer to fuck off). Papers and TV quote 10-15 million, but that's based on reaching the final. More like 1-2 million for not getting through to the knockout stages. And going off recent seasons it was unlikely we'd have got much further than the next round :(


£2m gate receipts per home game. A little under the same again in terms of TV money. Another half million or so prize money. Plus the opportunity to keep winning.

It's a kick in the dick for Old Man Glazer, there's no doubt.

[Marksy_1]

United are still my team, but FC United are the future! home game against Castleton Gabriels this saturday 3pm kick off all welcome!! And the FC Christmas Party at the night at Umist, going to be a cracking day! :cheers:

[andysimo123]

16th December
West/North Stand Corner
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144332&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144331&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144330&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144329&mediatype=2
East/North Stand Corner
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144328&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144327&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144326&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=144325&mediatype=2

[dgnr8]

Christ, they're fast workers. Looking good, can't be long now until the roof is removed to join up the upper tiers with the lower.

[WeasteDevil]

It's certainly going to be one of the most unique looking stadia in the world, whether it be to one's taste or not. I personally dislike the cantilever scaffolding, but... qué será, será.

[Isaac Newell]

http://www.cbleague.it/loghi_maglie/bombonera.jpg

similar to this, big and uniform on three sides, small on one side.

[andysimo123]

Pics from todays game from Stretford end.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0891.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0892.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0893.jpg

[andyains]

So much for being fresher after the postponement of the Boro game. 4-1. pah

Were Bolton really as bad as the scoreline suggests?

[andysimo123]

Ye in the second half United were all over Bolton.

[andyains]

mmmm, still have a couple of games in hand I s'pose

I hear Rooney was on fire today

[Gavin]

anyone got new piccies of this?
Also, does anyone else not think the club should put another bridge over the canal to help relieve the extra crush after the game?? an extra 8,000 people is a lot considering the crush you get now.

[andysimo123]

9th January 2006
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157685&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157684&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157683&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157682&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157681&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157656&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157655&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157655&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157654&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157653&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157651&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=157650&mediatype=2

[caw123]

3 of OT on a gloomy day
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/P1180040copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/P1180054copy.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y57/caw123/P1180034copy.jpg

[jrb]

COMS on derby day!

When OT is finally finished, Manchester and Trafford will have two wonderful football stadiums! ;)


http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/ContentResources/793.$plit/C_17_photogallery_365_list_photo_list_photo_item_1_photo.jpg

[ManchesterISwonderful]

One great stadium, one lovely Council House, eh JRB, you blue son of a gun?

[jrb]

One great stadium, one lovely Council House, eh JRB, you blue son of a gun?

I've got 50 City shares! How many United shares have you got? :)

Ps. How come there were no City song's at OT last night? Makes a change. :)

[Sir Miles Platting]

I've got 50 City shares! How many United shares have you got? :)

Ps. How come there were no City song's at OT last night? Makes a change. :)
Maybe coz they were playing Burton you silly man.... :)

[jrb]

Maybe coz they were playing Burton you silly man.... :)

Give over "my old man" Miles. You lot sing about us all the time, no matter who your playing.

[caw123]

Come on jrb, this is about Old Trafford, the stadium. Let's not let this become as silly and worthless as the world stadia forum.

[jrb]

COMS on derby day!

When OT is finally finished, Manchester and Trafford will have two wonderful football stadiums! ;)


http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/ContentResources/793.$plit/C_17_photogallery_365_list_photo_list_photo_item_1_photo.jpg

Fair point! But my original post was a valid one! Nothing wrong with a little banter though? Admit it! :)

[inquisitor57]

I have to say that although the extension is an improvement the Manchester City stadium is a much nicer place. I also think that they should have continued the white steel struts around the corner (ie, attatching the main stand to the two smaller ones). It looks a little silly having not having it all join up on the outside.

Non the less it is still an impressive stadium at an international standard.

[Jerv]

RE: talk of continuing the full height bowl effect all the way around.

This can NOT be done without re-roofing the entire structure without having resrictively expensive pumping to drain the roof or having large syphonic drainage downpipes running down in front of the spectators.

If anyone knows any different, then please let me know.

[Sifter]

Was the derby the first time the COMS has been full this season?

[Sir Miles Platting]

RE: talk of continuing the full height bowl effect all the way around.

This can NOT be done without re-roofing the entire structure without having resrictively expensive pumping to drain the roof or having large syphonic drainage downpipes running down in front of the spectators.

If anyone knows any different, then please let me know.
Nobody ever thinks of these 'little' details :) I've never noticed any downspouts coming from the (current) stand roof(s), mainly because I've never actually looked for them. Now we all know that water does not flow uphill without assistance, and considering the rather moist climate of the north-west.....where does it all go?

[Jerv]

Nobody ever thinks of these 'little' details :) I've never noticed any downspouts coming from the (current) stand roof(s), mainly because I've never actually looked for them. Now we all know that water does not flow uphill without assistance, and considering the rather moist climate of the north-west.....where does it all go?

It currently all falls to the main stand (ironically being the smallest), and then falls back to the rear of that stand to discharge into the below ground storm drains. This is the reason for my previous post. I beleive that downspouts in front of spectators would be unacceptable to MUFC.

The best they coul hope for would be to extend just the main stand and leave the corners low - this would work.

[Chorltonred]

I'm glad to know that I'm not the only saddo that has pondered this very same point. I think rain drainage would be a significant issue.

I suppose they could just put one additional tier with a flatter roof on the main stand allowing water still to drain. Although anyone who has sat in the front few rows at OT on a rainy night can tell you that a fair bit still flows straight off!

I agree with inquisitor there that the council house is a 'nicer', prettier stadium. But who wants a half empty, 'nice' stadium? Old Trafford wins hands down for me as its a proper ground with everyone crammed in by the touchline and the stands towering over the pitch. Citeh's ground is too, well, wide.

[WeasteDevil]

Couldn't they simply use pumps?

[ManchesterISwonderful]

The Emirates Stadium roof slops down(all the way around). Why should OT be different, surely the same thing can be done?

[jrb]

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http://www.mulehide.com/images/aspcan.jpg

[andysimo123]

Old Trafford a mouse pad
By Toby Forage
Fox Sports editor
January 20, 2006

REPORTS from England have suggested Manchester United had more than its permitted 11 players on deck this week to fend of non-League FA Cup hopeful Burton Albion.

An army of mice reportedly got under the bootlaces of the travelling minnows at Old Trafford during their third-round replay, which Albion lost heavily 5-0 after squeaking into the second match with a 0-0 draw a week prior.

There were no Toms in Burton Albion gear to chase away the vermin, and a raft of complaints have come United's way as a result.

Albion defender Ryan Austin told London's The Sun newspaper: "Every time I looked down, I saw a mouse.

"There were loads of them and I've never seen that before. There was plenty of seed on the grass, so I suppose they were feeling peckish."

A United spokesman also confirmed the tail . . . tale, we mean.

"There were a number of mice on the pitch," he said.

Pictures taken at the ground on Thursday morning (AEDT) confirmed the presence of the small rodents, and thankfully for animal lovers, none appeared to have been crushed in the same manner Burton was by United.

The club is insisting it is not a major problem.

"(The ground) is between a canal and a railway line, so the amount of debris around here, such as food wrappers, is a source of concern."

It is not the first time an animal has made the headlines after a football match in England.

The Times reports today how a dog actually scored a goal in a Staffordshire Sunday Cup tie in England's Midlands region when Newcastle Town and Knave of Clubs came together.

A Knaves striker misdirected his shot, but the pup pounced from the touchline, leapt skywards and glanced a superb header into the back of the net.

http://foxsports.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,5001,5099154,00.jpg
Goal-squeak ... United's mice hog the box. Pic: Associated Press

FOX SPORTS

[andysimo123]

Heres another pic of these mice...

http://images.thesun.co.uk/picture/0,,2006030453,00.jpg

[andysimo123]

Pics of the new corner taken from the east stand.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0912.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0911.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0910.jpg

[Sir Miles Platting]

Heres another pic of these mice...

http://images.thesun.co.uk/picture/0,,2006030453,00.jpg
Are you sure that's not Darren Fletcher running down the wing?

[andysimo123]

Are you sure that's not Darren Fletcher running down the wing?
Nar this is Darren Fletcherhttp://www.peta.org/feat/hiddenlives/images/chicken150.jpg

[Craig]

I read in the programme for the Liverpool game that the gables will be removed as early as late Feb with potential occupation of the new sections in April. Now that's rapid.

Thanks for the piccies Andy. Out of interest are the scoreboards going to remain in their current position? They look a bit odd. It about time we got proper scoreboards at OT like they have a the Nou Camp (or Camp Nou if you're pedantic).

[WeasteDevil]

Out of interest are the scoreboards going to remain in their current position? They look a bit odd. It about time we got proper scoreboards at OT like they have a the Nou Camp (or Camp Nou if you're pedantic).

I don't think that we can have them due to the sloping roof, cetain people would not be able to totally see them (or even at all). I'm thinking of those sitting higher up here.

http://www.ecfcfans.com/images/images/city%20at%20old%20trafford%202.JPG

[Gavin]

http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/5314/3oldtrafford1cc.jpg

[jrb]

Even I have to admit OT will look good inside. The outside is poor though.

[TheFly]

^^^so the 3rd tier of the north stand just ends...would imagine if you had an end seat at the front would be like hanging off a cliff!
Whenever I have sat up there it is at a tremendous height...i don't imagine you would do too much jumping around!!

[andysimo123]

26th January 2006
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171654&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171653&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171652&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171656&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171657&mediatype=2
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http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171676&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171679&mediatype=2
http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171655&mediatype=2

[rolybling]

its gonna look hugely impressive when its finished

[Gavin]

http://www.manutdpics.com/previewimage.php?mediaid=171657&mediatype=2

I'd like to see this join section worked better. Maybe they could continue the green glass across the front of the stadium for continuity. I had hoped for slightly more prgress on this since the last update but maybe they have been concentrating on the inside. Putting seats in place perhaps????

I wish united would post piccies from inside the stadium and from where the new seats are going to be placed. Surely they could get some good angles and piccies from there. what is there to hide?

[andysimo123]

United supporters attending Saturday's game against Fulham will see it for themselves: the expansion of England's biggest club stadium continues apace.

Construction work on Old Trafford's new North-East and North-West quadrants is going so well that club officials and building contractors Laing O'Rourke are confident fans will use parts of the new stands before the end of this season.

United's project manager Gary Hebblewhite says the club is delighted with the progress, especially as building work has had to be stopped - and a clean-up job done - before each and every home match during 2005/06.

"With a development like this spectator and visitor safety is paramount," says Gary.

"But with our experience of expanding other areas of the stadium over the past decade we believe that there has been very little disruption on match days.

"There've been times when we've had a lot of home games in a short space of time but we've got a procedure in place that we feel has been a real success and we've managed to maintain the capacity."

Gary says fans will begin to notice changes inside OT during the next stage of the project, the internal fit-out.

"You can see the impact of the development externally but the real impact will come when we remove the gables between the North and East, and the North and West stands," he says.

"This will create a bowl effect, which is when fans will see the sheer scale of the development. I anticipate that being by the end of February."

As with previous developments at the stadium, supporters could be allowed into sections of the new stands earlier than the official opening. Birmingham in March has been mooted by the press but Gary insists it’s far too early to suggest a date.

"With any major development you've got to make sure that all the life-safety systems are working as they should do," he says.

"That means emergency lighting systems, fire alarm systems, exit gates, turnstiles and so on require testing.

"At this stage we allow stewards and other members of our matchday safety team to review the new areas. Only when these exercises have been done will we consider opening the new areas for spectator use.

"We've done this on all our major developments and we will be looking for opportunities to use these areas prior to next season."

Little pic could they make it any smaller. :(
http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_12696.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=250&hei=173&rgn=0,0,0,0&cvt=jpeg

[Chorltonred]

I've been told that the Arsenal game in April is the target for getting some of the new seats available.

And no current plans to develop the main stand.

[andysimo123]

Well there would be no point opening it for the Sunderland game I dont think we would fill the ground. It will be either Arsenal, Middlesbrough or a possible FA cup game. It will be defo be open by May.

[majormystery]

You really think there will be league games with empty seats next season?
I still reckon it'll be sold out

[andysimo123]

You really think there will be league games with empty seats next season?
I still reckon it'll be sold out
Next Season it will be a sell out because the Season ticket numbers are going up and everyone will be after one. But just for the that Sunderland game(if its open) I cant see that many One United members buying tickets for it.

[Metrolink]

I think there will be a considerable number of games next year not sold out.

Glazer has got rid of a lot of the core support.

Day trippers are still coming, but they'll get bored when Chelsea are miles ahead again.

Add to this the inevitable price increase.

I reckon many season tickets will be given up, many people only have ST's since they would not get a ticket otherwise, people don't see this anymore, especially with the new seats, why having a season ticket which means you get all the crap, when you can pick and choose your matched.

Not what I'm going to do, but I reckon a lot will give up their ST's.

[majormystery]

I think there will be a considerable number of games next year not sold out.

Glazer has got rid of a lot of the core support.

Day trippers are still coming, but they'll get bored when Chelsea are miles ahead again.

Add to this the inevitable price increase.

I reckon many season tickets will be given up, many people only have ST's since they would not get a ticket otherwise, people don't see this anymore, especially with the new seats, why having a season ticket which means you get all the crap, when you can pick and choose your matched.

Not what I'm going to do, but I reckon a lot will give up their ST's.


That isnt quite true when you think about it. If people were to start to pick and choose which games to go to they would all pick the City, Liverpool, Arsenal etc games. These games would be sold out. So people will still keep their season tickets in order to ensure they get to see these big games.

[andysimo123]

I think there will be a considerable number of games next year not sold out.

Glazer has got rid of a lot of the core support.

Day trippers are still coming, but they'll get bored when Chelsea are miles ahead again.

Add to this the inevitable price increase.

I reckon many season tickets will be given up, many people only have ST's since they would not get a ticket otherwise, people don't see this anymore, especially with the new seats, why having a season ticket which means you get all the crap, when you can pick and choose your matched.

Not what I'm going to do, but I reckon a lot will give up their ST's.
What aload of crap. Which fans are these? Stretford end is still singing as loud as ever and the banners are back up with afew new ones up. Everyone I know who has a season ticket hasnt given it up. The "Core Fans" still go.

[Metrolink]

Maj - I know a 1United member this year who has picked and chosen his games.

He has applied for Scousers, Chelski and City, got every one of them.

He hasn't been chubbed once this year.

I suspect even the bigger games the tickets will be much more 'available'.

Depends if people are willing to spend £500 just to guarentee Scouser tickets, or whether they are happy to pay £100 a ticket for the biggest 4 games.

[andysimo123]

Maj - I know a 1United member this year who has picked and chosen his games.

He has applied for Scousers, Chelski and City, got every one of them.

He hasn't been chubbed once this year.

I suspect even the bigger games the tickets will be much more 'available'.

Depends if people are willing to spend £500 just to guarentee Scouser tickets, or whether they are happy to pay £100 a ticket for the biggest 4 games.
I am a One United Member and I applied for Liverpool and Everton and didnt get tickets.

[Metrolink]

http://www.manutd.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=299986&itype=466&icategoryid=119


New Seats Set For Current Season Debut

United supporters attending Saturday's game against Fulham will see it for themselves: the expansion of England's biggest club stadium continues apace.

Construction work on Old Trafford's new North-East and North-West quadrants is going so well that club officials and building contractors Laing O'Rourke are confident fans will use parts of the new stands before the end of this season.

United's project manager Gary Hebblewhite says the club is delighted with the progress, especially as building work has had to be stopped - and a clean-up job done - before each and every home match during 2005/06.

"With a development like this spectator and visitor safety is paramount," says Gary.
"But with our experience of expanding other areas of the stadium over the past decade we believe that there has been very little disruption on match days.

"There've been times when we've had a lot of home games in a short space of time but we've got a procedure in place that we feel has been a real success and we've managed to maintain the capacity."

Gary says fans will begin to notice changes inside OT during the next stage of the project, the internal fit-out.

"You can see the impact of the development externally but the real impact will come when we remove the gables between the North and East, and the North and West stands," he says.

"This will create a bowl effect, which is when fans will see the sheer scale of the development. I anticipate that being by the end of February."
As with previous developments at the stadium, supporters could be allowed into sections of the new stands earlier than the official opening. Birmingham in March has been mooted by the press but Gary insists it’s far too early to suggest a date.

"With any major development you've got to make sure that all the life-safety systems are working as they should do," he says.

"That means emergency lighting systems, fire alarm systems, exit gates, turnstiles and so on require testing.

"At this stage we allow stewards and other members of our matchday safety team to review the new areas. Only when these exercises have been done will we consider opening the new areas for spectator use.

"We've done this on all our major developments and we will be looking for opportunities to use these areas prior to next season."

It's not just the construction work that's making excellent progress. Sales of 2006/07 hospitality packages have gone so well that only a few packages now remain in the five new areas. To find out more, call the sales team on 0870 442 1994 or click here

[Metrolink]

Also from the same web site...

Quadrants Facts & Figures
270,000 Man-hours spent on the project since it began
76,000 Old Trafford's new capacity when work is completed
70,504 United's record home crowd (27.12.1920 v Aston Villa)
60,000 Arsenal's capacity at the new Emirates Stadium
42,360 Chelsea's current capacity at Stamford Bridge
4,000 Cubic metres of concrete poured during the project
2,949 Sq. metres of hospitality & conference space in quads
1,642 Tonnes of steel used to build the two new quadrants
1,000 Pre-cast units pieced together to form the new terracing
160 Operatives (approx.) working on the site at any one time
45 Percentage increase in the number of matchday diners

[majormystery]

Looks like that 85 year old record will soon be beaten.

[Chorltonred]

AndySimo

My wife and I have both given up our LMTBs because of the price increases. It is simply not true to say no-one has given up their season tickets.

As for next season, as the capacity and the prices increase, the incentive to own a season ticket will decrease. It's simple economics.

However, there may well be interest next year with the issue of all the new season tickets. I am sure that there is still significant kudos in owning a United season ticket, and this will keep up demand.

However it ultimately depends on what happens on the pitch. If Chelsea continue to dominate the league and prices increase, there will certainly be a number of games that struggle to sell out, particularly in August and September.

Also there may well be a further drop off in cup attendances is more people invest up-front in season tickets.

With both commercial and media revenues falling, the Glazers will certainly need the fans to keep coming if they are to pay the interest on their debts.

[dgnr8]

Isn't United's highest attendance around 86,000 when they were playing at Maine Road?

[Chorltonred]

dgnr8

83,250 v Arsenal at Maine Road, also an all time record league attendance.

Citeh have had a higher FA Cup attendance at Maine Road, the highest for an English crowd outside London. 84,000 odd I think.

[Metrolink]

lso there may well be a further drop off in cup attendances is more people invest up-front in season tickets.

Unless of course a specific number of cup matches are included in the ST like at Arsenal.

[Chorltonred]

I've heard that rumour bandied about.

That may backfire as the initial outlay would go up 30% or so. Quite a few people simply couldn't afford that.

Wouldn't surprise me if they tried it though.

[andysimo123]

I've heard that rumour bandied about.

That may backfire as the initial outlay would go up 30% or so. Quite a few people simply couldn't afford that.

Wouldn't surprise me if they tried it though.
United could make alot awful lot of money over the summer and over the next season and will properly have a turn over of £200 million. There are going to be alot of new deals over the next year. New TV deals, New Sponsorship deals, more season ticket/one united ticket sales and the new shirt comes out so that will make a bomb.

[TheFly]

although seems trivial a 45% increase in match day meals will bring in a tremedous amount or revenue....

re the debt...the development work at OT over the last 10 years (44,500-76,000) encompassing the build up to Euro96-summer 2006 has been colossal c£130 million in 10 years...there is only so much stadium development they can do before that money is released to... well probably pay off a large chunk of the debt!!

[andysimo123]

Looking down towards the East stand.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0933.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0934.jpg
Fulham with hardly any fans. Worse support away support I have seen at Old Trafford.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0935.jpg
Big ass North Stand.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0936.jpg
New North-East Corner.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0937.jpg
Looking through the glass at the new stand. You cant really see on here but the roof is half done. I would expect the seats to be going in very soon.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0938.jpg

[Isaac Newell]

United could make alot awful lot of money over the summer and over the next season and will properly have a turn over of £200 million. There are going to be alot of new deals over the next year. New TV deals, New Sponsorship deals, more season ticket/one united ticket sales and the new shirt comes out so that will make a bomb.

United make no money from shirt sales, they get a fixed amount from Nike with some bonuses and penalties included in the deal.
They sensibly moved the risk to Nike.

[andysimo123]

United make no money from shirt sales, they get a fixed amount from Nike with some bonuses and penalties included in the deal.
They sensibly moved the risk to Nike.
"They get a fixed amount" .... so .... they do get money from shirt sales. I would expect United to get a pay off from Nike after afew months because of the New Shirts. If I set up a deal, thats what I would do it because it would be stupid not to.

[LocksRocks]

United make no money from shirt sales, they get a fixed amount from Nike with some bonuses and penalties included in the deal.
They sensibly moved the risk to Nike.

Football Clubs are among the biggest sellers of there own shirt. They receive the same returns as any other retailer from selling shirts. So they get the inital deal from Nike and the profits from selling the shirts. They don't get a commision on any shirts sold at JJB, All sports etc.

[Isaac Newell]

Football Clubs are among the biggest sellers of there own shirt. They receive the same returns as any other retailer from selling shirts. So they get the inital deal from Nike and the profits from selling the shirts. They don't get a commision on any shirts sold at JJB, All sports etc.

For that to be viable, everyone in the world would need to buy one from the megastore. United shifted the risk away from themselves to Nike who at the moment are probably looking at their get out clauses

[Chorltonred]

United do not sell their own merchandise. Their operation is entirely undertaken by Nike who also own and operate the megastore.

[LocksRocks]

For that to be viable, everyone in the world would need to buy one from the megastore. United shifted the risk away from themselves to Nike who at the moment are probably looking at their get out clauses

I suppose it's different with clubs United who sign big shirt deals, but most clubs operate club shops themselves, they have buy the shirts from the makers. If United have a deal with Nike, Nike don't care who sells the shirts, they have already paid United. But if Nike operate the mega store the can at least milk fans on match days.

[majormystery]

United do not sell their own merchandise. Their operation is entirely undertaken by Nike who also own and operate the megastore.

You sure about this? I can see resons why they might allow Nike to run the store. But not to sell it. Why give up a patch of land in the middle of the Old Trafford grounds. Could cause trouble for any future ground developments.

[Metrolink]

major - it's part of the £300m Nike deal.

If you've been to the Nou Camp you'd see something very similar with Barcelona.

[majormystery]

It also signed a 13-year, £200m kit-sponsorship contract last year with Nike, which also now manages the club’s 1,500 square metre megastore.

http://www.cfoeurope.com/displayStory.cfm/1777426

[Chorltonred]

I doubt Nike have legal title to the land it stands upon, but I'm pretty sure that the agreement allows them unfettered use and operation of the megastore for the life of the deal. Practical rather than legal ownership if you will.

[majormystery]

In other words - a lease.

[Chorltonred]

Who knows? It's a very strange deal. But in substance it's a lease I'd say.

[andysimo123]

Its defo Nike because 3 of my mates work in their and it has nowt to do with United.

[Isaac Newell]

I suppose it's different with clubs United who sign big shirt deals, but most clubs operate club shops themselves, they have buy the shirts from the makers. If United have a deal with Nike, Nike don't care who sells the shirts, they have already paid United. But if Nike operate the mega store the can at least milk fans on match days.

more people shop in your local Tesco than the United megastore. Nike's revenues from the megastore will be minute comared to their total United related revenues.

[ManchesterISwonderful]

They only get the cash from sales they make on Nike products.

[andysimo123]

Nike earn around £1 million pounds per game at the megastore. As I said my mates work in there and they have said 98% of the customers in there spend over £150 on match days. They have like 20 tills in there working none stop on a match day in stupid que's. I've been in there before the match and turned round befour I even got anywhere near the till.
I think United earn around £2 million a game from the ground ticket sales, drinks, food, meals, programs and the other shite they sell.

[Isaac Newell]

Nike earn around £1 million pounds per game at the megastore. As I said my mates work in there and they have said 98% of the customers in there spend over £150 on match days. They have like 20 tills in there working none stop on a match day in stupid que's. I've been in there before the match and turned round befour I even got anywhere near the till.
I think United earn around £2 million a game from the ground ticket sales, drinks, food, meals, programs and the other shite they sell.

by earn do you mean 1 million in profit or 1 million in turnover bearing in mind they have to pay the staff and their outsourced shirtmakers.

[andysimo123]

That would be turnover I have no idea how much profit they make but they pay their staff fuzz all I would recon they do make quite abit of profit you know what nike are like they make there products in countries where it costs not and they treat the workers like crap.

[andysimo123]

check this shit out http://www.manutd.com/newquadrant/home.sps?itype=9189&icustompageid=1257&quadssplash

there is too much to post of here but there are loads of videos, pictures and artices on the new stands. I'll just post some of the interesting facts.

Prices(these are shocking).
Sports Bar - £1,600
Lounge Bar - £1,850
Executive Lounge - £2,820
Evolution Suites - £6,500
Fine Dining - £7,500
Super Suites - £264,375(mad or what)

New Seats Set For Current Season Debut

Fans who attended the 4-2 win against Fulham will have seen it for themselves: the expansion of England's biggest club stadium is continuing apace.

Construction work on Old Trafford's new North-East and North-West quadrants is going so well that club officials and building contractors Laing O'Rourke are confident fans will use parts of the new stands before the end of this season.

United's project manager Gary Hebblewhite says the club is delighted with the progress, especially as building work has had to be stopped - and a clean-up job done - before each and every home match during 2005/06.

"With a development like this spectator and visitor safety is paramount," says Gary.

"But with our experience of expanding other areas of the stadium over the past decade we believe that there has been very little disruption on match days.

"There've been times when we've had a lot of home games in a short space of time but we've got a procedure in place that we feel has been a real success and we've managed to maintain the capacity."

Gary says fans will begin to notice changes inside OT during the next stage of the project, the internal fit-out.

"You can see the impact of the development externally but the real impact will come when we remove the gables between the North and East, and the North and West stands," he says.

"This will create a bowl effect, which is when fans will see the sheer scale of the development. I anticipate that being by the end of February."
As with previous developments at the stadium, supporters could be allowed into sections of the new stands earlier than the official opening. Birmingham in March has been mooted by the press but Gary insists it’s far too early to suggest a date.

"With any major development you've got to make sure that all the life-safety systems are working as they should do," he says.

"That means emergency lighting systems, fire alarm systems, exit gates, turnstiles and so on require testing.

"At this stage we allow stewards and other members of our matchday safety team to review the new areas. Only when these exercises have been done will we consider opening the new areas for spectator use.

"We've done this on all our major developments and we will be looking for opportunities to use these areas prior to next season."

It's not just the construction work that's making excellent progress. Sales of 2006/07 hospitality packages have gone so well that only a few packages now remain in the five new areas.

Join One United - And Sit In The New Quadrant Seats

Manchester United is delighted to announce that a number of seats for Old Trafford's new Quadrants will be available before the end of the current season, increasing the interim* capacity to over 70,000.

An allocation of tickets for the brand new seats will be made available to New One United Members. To become a Member, please call 0870 442 1994 or visit manutd.com/oneunited.

To be entered into the ballot for new Quadrant seats, New Members will have to apply for tickets to one of the following three matches:

# Birmingham - 26 March (apply from Friday 10 February)
# Sunderland - 15 April (apply from Friday 3 March)
# Middlesbro' - 22 April (apply from Friday 10 March)

New Members who apply for two or three of the above fixtures will be guaranteed a ticket to at least one of the matches. Please note, this promotion does not include the Arsenal or Charlton games. You can apply for one ticket per Member.

To apply for tickets, please call 0870 442 1999 or visit manutd.com/tickets.

There are, of course, many other benefits to joining One United including £5 off the full match ticket price, discounts for the Museum, Megastore and Red Cafe, and a special commemorative George Best poster in your membership pack.

One United Members will also be invited to register their interest in purchasing a new season ticket for 2006/07. (Click here for more information).

*The capacity of Old Trafford will be over 76,000 when the new Quadrants are completed for the start of 2006/07.

Two renders.
http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_12871.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=806&hei=600&rgn=0,0,0,0&cvt=jpeg
http://picsrv.manutd.com/?fif=/manu/img_10_12870.jpg&obj=iip,1.0&wid=1024&hei=762&rgn=0,0,0,0&cvt=jpeg

[Gavin]

Andy, is that the same render twice? Any chance you can post more renders / photos esp. from inside??

[andysimo123]

Andy, is that the same render twice? Any chance you can post more renders / photos esp. from inside??
Yep there were two sizes. I thought people have different screen sizes may as well post them both. I couldnt many pics but on that link they are about 10 videos.

[dgnr8]

Got a screengrab of the interior. Quality's quite pap, so apologies.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y88/faggotbrain/OTinterior.jpg

[jrb]

Stretford.

Probably been seen before?

http://www.millerpartnership.com/manchester.htm

[dgnr8]

Looking at that image I posted, what does eveyrbody think about joining the stands up? I was thinking the third tier of the North would be freestanding leaving some blocked views right up in the corners. But I don't know, it looks like the quadrants may have an elevated top tier, so the third tier of the North actually links properly to serve as a "third tier" for the corners. If you see what I mean. Look at this pic of The Valley.

http://www.pictureblinds.co.uk/footballgrounds/images/Charltonfg.JPG

Now the new corners are at a steeper angle than the bottom tier of the main stand. I know this doesn't happen but it looks like it in the pic - the corner with it's steep angle appears to link directly onto the second tier of the main stand up by the top. This is what I'm imagining the top and 2nd tier of OT to look like by the corners. But sintead of being another tier, it'll be one like OT had pre-North stand (by which I mean OT always appeared 2 tiered but it wasn't, it just had a kind of concrete step up from the lower part of the stand to the higher).

I don't know, I'm talking gash. It takes a special (read - Joey Deacon) type of mind to understand my head.

[dgnr8]

So that white line coming from the corner of the North's 3rd tier may actually be a concrete wall, like you see either side of the new stand at Stamford Bridge.

[Irish Blood English Heart]

I think they had some clearer pics that showed it was very Charltonesque. It was in the uk sports and cultural forum I think.

[andysimo123]

First pics by me from tonights game vs Westham with the West Quad full of seats.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0978.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0977.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/DSCF0976.jpg

[honolulu bob]

very impressive in its size but looks a bit messy to me, but then i would say that wouldn't i :D

[Liam-Manchester]

I sat in the North West Quadrant tonight, the view was excellent.

[andysimo123]

I sat in the North West Quadrant tonight, the view was excellent.
How much that cost you? £30?

[Liam-Manchester]

How much that cost you? £30?

£37, but being the good fan I am I decided to pay up! Don't get many opportunites to go, best taking the chance while I can.

[Craig]

very impressive in its size but looks a bit messy to me, but then i would say that wouldn't i :D

Yes the new seats do seem to sit a bit awkwardly from Andy's photos. Maybe they'll look more even when fully occupied.

[andysimo123]

£37, but being the good fan I am I decided to pay up! Don't get many opportunites to go, best taking the chance while I can.
Bloody hell, I would never pay that. I only paid £26.

[Metrolink]

Must say the atmosphere last night - despite being a totally non important match - was spot on in tier 3.

Think the corners being removed has made the atmosphere miles better, each part of the ground can hear each other now, which stimulates more and more singing.

[andysimo123]

Must say the atmosphere last night - despite being a totally non important match - was spot on in tier 3.

Think the corners being removed has made the atmosphere miles better, each part of the ground can hear each other now, which stimulates more and more singing.
It was a petty shit atmosphere in the first half but when Ruud scored the 2nd half started rocking. I would have loved to have been up in Stretford End but I was in the next best place right next to the away fans. They went quite in the 2nd half "We forgot, We forgot, We forgot that you were here WE FORGOT THAT YOU WERE HERE!"

[Gavin]

Went last night. One thing for me that was worrying was getting home. I really think United need to extend the bridge over the canal or provide another one. It really feels like another 7,000 people may make it unsafe. Also, when people were going under the metro line it came to a stand still and then on the other side people queuing for the alty tram were all the way back to the tunnel ramp reducing capacity. I feel that this issue again could become dangerous with another 7,000 people at the ground. Someone needs to widen the tunnel, or more likely, put in a bridge to ease the congestion in the tunnel. This could become a serious issue if its not deal with over the summer. Also, the trams are now so inadequate its untrue. We really need another 6 doubles at least.
With regards to further expansions, i reckon these will be blocked by the council unless public transport, mainly trams, are improved. This would need to be in the form of Phase three with the Trafford Centre link and more trams. It wouldnt surprise me if the council tries to limit any further increases in capacity to those that could be accomodated 100% with extra public transport provision.

[Metrolink]

Gavin - people have said exactly the same things as you every time the stadium has been made bigger - yet somehow it continues to 'work'.

I remember people complaining about lack of trams, lack of capacity on the bridges etc when it was first announced the capacity was to go from 45k to 55k with the north stand expansion.

Not to say you aren't correct, but all those issues have been around for 10-15 years now.

[Chorltonred]

And don't forget Barcelona cope with 95,000 crowds in an area also in a suburban setting. A lot of people will walk a fair way to their car or transport.

[rolybling]

I'll get some pix of this for you guys when we get a few decent days weather..watch this space

[Isaac Newell]

There is a metro line either side of Camp Nou.

[Chorltonred]

Maybe Isaac, but I doubt 98,000 people get it, and besides theres a Metrolink line either side of Old Trafford :)

[Isaac Newell]

Very true, but a six car metro train can shift a lot of people. I would think a lot of people walk to Camp Nou and a lot of out of towners come in by coach. I seem to remember a lot of dusty waste ground around the stadium.

[honolulu bob]

what about the congestion on the train lines up from surrey? :runaway:

[Metrolink]

The capacity problems of Metrolink could very much be solved by phase 3.

There'd be a new depot storing 55 trams next door to OT tram station, and with the possibility of turning trams at OT and Trafford Bar would enable 'short running'.

Also, the possibility of Trafford Centre line would be able to create easily sufficient capacity.

The problem we have a the moment is simply due to the terrible lack of capacity that was paid for with phase 1 and 2 when the systems were built, and could be relatively easily fixed during phase 3.

Note - the stadium stop proposed near Citeh's ground would have 3 platforms, enabling trams to be 'held' for the rush - not repeating the mistakes of the past.

[mattlister]

The atmosphere was good for the West Ham game, especially in Stretford End Tier 2. It was funny when we started singing old player songs and then "Quadrant give us a song"

The 70,000 barrier should be broken for the Arsenal game, I'm looking forward to it.

As for the transport I just leave 2 minutes early and get the train from the station at the ground which has lots of carriages, luckily I've had no problems this year.

[andysimo123]

The atmosphere was good for the West Ham game, especially in Stretford End Tier 2. It was funny when we started singing old player songs and then "Quadrant give us a song"

The 70,000 barrier should be broken for the Arsenal game, I'm looking forward to it.

As for the transport I just leave 2 minutes early and get the train from the station at the ground which has lots of carriages, luckily I've had no problems this year.
I hate fans who all leave early, I dont see a point in going and paying £26 if your gona leave early and also what happens if United score a last mintue goal, your'll have missed it for no reason what so ever. I always stay to the very end and its not hard getting out.

[Metrolink]

Agree Andy, early leavers do my head in as well.

Anyway, the seemingly good news regards progress on Metrolink today should help resolve any transport problems in the longer term.

[Isaac Newell]

Only ever left early once, and I missed Jimmy Greenhof's third against Newcastle. Heard a great song that day. If you were there you'll know what I mean.

[Isaac Newell]

The capacity problems of Metrolink could very much be solved by phase 3.

There'd be a new depot storing 55 trams next door to OT tram station, and with the possibility of turning trams at OT and Trafford Bar would enable 'short running'.

Also, the possibility of Trafford Centre line would be able to create easily sufficient capacity.

The problem we have a the moment is simply due to the terrible lack of capacity that was paid for with phase 1 and 2 when the systems were built, and could be relatively easily fixed during phase 3.

Note - the stadium stop proposed near Citeh's ground would have 3 platforms, enabling trams to be 'held' for the rush - not repeating the mistakes of the past.

That's good news, ever wandered why Feyenoord host so many European finals, check the 8 platform rail station next door.

[GShutty]

Looks as though Old Trafford will be hosting England games until 2007, according to the BBC website. Wembley it appears will further delayed making OT the natural alternative due to the venues capacity.

Good news for the city, further boosting it's profile and allowing neutrals to see the 76,000 venue in all its glory.

Still looking forward to seeing Wembley completed, but I feel there's a good argument to play at least a couple of England games in the North.

[Metrolink]

Problem is the FA need all the money possible from Wembely, therefore all England games will be played in London, even the FA Cup finals will be there to raise extra cash.

[Isaac Newell]

I'm sure I read that all semis will be played there as well. It'll be half empty for them.

I worry that the Champions League final may never return to OT because of Wembley, who put's forward the stadium, is it UEFA or the hosting FA ?

[hammerb24]

I'm sure I read that all semis will be played there as well. It'll be half empty for them.

I worry that the Champions League final may never return to OT because of Wembley, who put's forward the stadium, is it UEFA or the hosting FA ?

I'm pretty sure it's UEFA that recommend them, I was watching an article on BBC N24 a few weeks ago around the new Wembley being considered for a future Champions League final. It talked a lot about UEFA drawing up a short list.

[Longsight M13]

I'm pretty sure it's UEFA that recommend them, I was watching an article on BBC N24 a few weeks ago around the new Wembley being considered for a future Champions League final. It talked a lot about UEFA drawing up a short list.


They already have a shortlist. You need 5 stars for an ECF and 4 stars for a UEFA final. The Council House will get that soon.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:UEFA_5_star_stadiums

[ManUtdGuaro]

i love MAN UTD
I AM VENEZUELAN
I LIVE IN BARQUISIMETO,VENEZUELA

I WILL GO TO MANCHESTER IN THIS SUMMER

GLORY,MAN UTD,GLORY MAN UTD

[ManUtdGuaro]

Nike earn around £1 million pounds per game at the megastore. As I said my mates work in there and they have said 98% of the customers in there spend over £150 on match days. They have like 20 tills in there working none stop on a match day in stupid que's. I've been in there before the match and turned round befour I even got anywhere near the till.
I think United earn around £2 million a game from the ground ticket sales, drinks, food, meals, programs and the other shite they sell.
I bought at www.store.manutd.com (shipped via DHL or UPS) but I live in Barquisimeto,Venezuela(Southamerica) I spend 115 US$ for every order

[Jerv]

Nice one fella.

PS it's GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED

[WeasteDevil]

i love MAN UTD
I AM VENEZUELAN
I LIVE IN BARQUISIMETO,VENEZUELA

I WILL GO TO MANCHESTER IN THIS SUMMER

GLORY,MAN UTD,GLORY MAN UTD

¡Bienvenido!

¿Porqué tienes interes en Manchester United?

[Liam-Manchester]

I hate fans who all leave early, I dont see a point in going and paying £26 if your gona leave early and also what happens if United score a last mintue goal, your'll have missed it for no reason what so ever. I always stay to the very end and its not hard getting out.

Agree totally with that, not only at the end of the game but leaving early for half team to get a pie or whatever- the guy next to me on Wednesday left about 2 minutes before half time and missed Ruud's goal. It would be the ultimate tragedy for me if I'd paid my money and missed the only goal of the game.

[ManUtdGuaro]

¡Bienvenido!

¿Porqué tienes interes en Manchester United?
por que me gusta el MAN UTD desde los 10 años de edad

i'm big fan since 1985 i 'm red till i die

[rolybling]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y139/rolybling/P1010081.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y139/rolybling/P1010085.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y139/rolybling/P1010080.jpg

[dgnr8]

You're a bloody diamond with that camera Roly, thanks once again.

[SleepyOne]

Looking a lot better from the outside now. Those new quadrants seem to be giving the old cattle shed a look of cohesion, quality and gravitas finally.

I notice the topmost pointy bits of the new extensions have lost their asymmetric form. Shame. Lets the side down somewhat.




http://www.unitedlinks.co.uk/neq2.jpg

[rolybling]

Breaking News- Man Utd new shirt deal has fell through!

nothing's ever simple with utd is it?

[Isaac Newell]

Good. An online Casino isn't really appropriate. Plus you can't wear the name of a gambling company in many countries.

[Gherkin]

Is the perspective/angle wrong on that render? I'm much happier with the external view of the new quadrants than the interna views..

[ManUtdGuaro]

LG it's the new sponsor shirt