Fans protest ‘exploitation of supporters’ by Manchester and Merseyside clubs

Fans from both Manchester and Merseyside clubs will put rivalries aside and join forces this weekend to protest against rising ticket prices.

In a major show of unity, followers of Manchester United, Everton, Liverpool and Manchester City will highlight what they say is the 'exploitation of loyal supporters'.

Protests will take place outside both Old Trafford and Anfield on Sunday, with supporters from English football's great divide 'standing shoulder to shoulder'.

Earlier this week it emerged that United increased ticket prices to £66 and abolished concessions for the rest of the season. All but one of the top clubs have increased ticket prices this season.

Organizers say United's move came in the same week that the Premier League's new broadcast rights deal rose 17 percent to a 'staggering £12.25 billion'.

There is also growing concern that some clubs are now targeting the £30 limit on away tickets in the top flight.

At Old Trafford United, group FC58 will hold up an anti-exploitation banner alongside traveling Evertonians at the Trinity Statue outside Old Trafford.

The later kick-off will see fans from Liverpool's Spirit of Shankly join City 1894's Foodbank Support and MCFC Fans outside the foodbank collection point near the corner of the Kop and Kenny Dalglish stands.

MCFC Fans Foodbank Support spokesperson Nick Clarke said: 'Animosity between City and Liverpool fans has increased in recent years as a result of the rivalry on the pitch, so we are incredibly proud to stand together on this important issue.

'Tribalism prevents football fans from addressing the real threats to the game we built; Working class fans are being priced out before our eyes. We can reverse this trend.'

Spirit of Shankly spokesperson Gareth Roberts added: 'It is time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters. That passionate support that drives the creation of flags and banners, of songs and vocal support, comes from generations of dedication to the cause.

'That support is threatened by the price of football – from tickets to TV subscriptions, even down to the prices of food and drink in the hall. Raising prices when the financial pressure on fans is at an all-time high is an insult. We are proud to stand with Manchester fans in the fight for fairness.”

An FC58 spokesperson said: 'The rivalry between these four clubs was and is fierce. But we all go to matches, love our club and want to keep football affordable for future generations, while protecting heritage and communities.

'The only way we can achieve this is through collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.”

Dave Kelly of Everton Fans Supporting Foodbanks added: “The cost of living crisis is deepening. With children going to school hungry, parents skipping meals and the cost of match tickets out of reach for some of the most passionate and loyal fans in our communities.

'We are happy to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Reds and Blues from Manchester and Merseyside.

'This is not about the color of the shirt or the badge on the chest. It's about the future of the beautiful game, protecting it and making it affordable for all fans.”

Thomas Concannon of the Football Supporters' Association added: 'The price rises and attacks on bargain prices we've seen in the Premier League have led directly to our #StopExploitingLoyalty campaign and this weekend's actions.

'To see supporters of rival clubs uniting to deliver this message is astonishing and shows how strongly fans feel: they have the full support of the FSA.'