Glazers escape angry United fans in police vans

Machester United fans demonstrate outside the Old Trafford stadium in May 2005. Joel, Avi and Bryan Glazer had to leave Old Trafford in police vans after angry Manchester United fans staged violent protests outside the ground.

Joel, Avi and Bryan Glazer had to leave Old Trafford in police vans after Manchester United fans, angry at their 790 million pound takeover, protested outside the ground.

The Glazer brothers, sons of new owner Malcolm, were making their first trip to England which also included a meeting with Premier League and FA chiefs in London.

Around 500 angry supporters vented their anger at the Glazers outside Old Trafford and blocked their passage away from the ground.

Over 100 police officers were present and a huge security operation was launched to get the Glazers away from the ground amid angry chanting and skirmishes.

"Police were called to Old Trafford football ground last night following reports that a number of fans were protesting outside," said a Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman.

"High visibility patrols, dog handlers and officers from the tactical aid unit went to Old Trafford to ensure the protest remained peaceful."

Two people were arrested during the protest, and United fans claims it will only be the start of a prolonged campaign to get the Americans out.

"The Glazer family are the enemies of Manchester United," said Shareholders United vice-chairman Sean Bones, who was present throughout the five-hour demonstration.

"We find them disgusting and repulsive. They may have captured the club but they only have it on a temporary basis.

"It might take a long time, maybe two or three years, but we are showing Glazer that we won't give up.

"In the long-term the Glazer brand will be suffocated. The previous Manchester United brand was peerless in terms of sporting brand names.

"The Glazer brand is toxic and tarnished, uncool and unstylish. Glazer will lose the war."

Joel Glazer, who is expected to be confirmed as chairman of the club, is believed to have spent part of his evening recording an interview for the club's television station, MUTV.

The interview will be broadcast on Friday evening.