Charlton reassured after Glazers meeting

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton admitted that he was now reassured about the future of the club after meeting new owner Malcolm Glazer's sons.

Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton admitted that he was now reassured about the future of the club after meeting new owner Malcolm Glazer's sons.

Joel, Avi and Bryan Glazer returned to Old Trafford just hours after they had to leave in the club in the back of a police van after fans, angry at their 790 million pound takeover, protested outside the ground.

A meeting was held with staff on Thursday afternoon at which the Glazers outlined their plans.

Charlton, former chairman Martin Edwards and club secretary Maurice Watkins all attended to hear what the brothers had to say.

"I don't worry about the future of Manchester United as much as I did. I went in with a very open mind and I was pleased to hear they won't be making any changes," said Charlton.

"They know all about the history of the club, about Munich (plane crash 1958) and what happened there. I think the club is bigger than the Glazer family, the players or the directors that have been here before.

"I am happy with what they had to say and feel better for hearing them."

As Charlton was making his exit the Glazer brothers were leaving by a side entrance after Wednesday night's incidents when around 500 angry supporters vented their anger during their first visit to the club 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."