Man United fans told the truth about new 100,000-seat stadium – Keith Wyness
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has warned Man United their new stadium will be a “no-go” if transport links around Old Trafford are not significantly improved.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted it is “absolutely crucial” to invest in public transport around the new stadium.
As per the BBC (9 September), local councils have agreed to work with Man United to ensure the area around Old Trafford benefits from plans to redevelop the ground.
The club are planning to build a new 100,000-seater stadium with their existing ground no longer up to scratch.
Football Insider has revealed (11 September) that Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe could put more equity into the club to help fund the new stadium project.
Man United stadium is a ‘no-go’ without new transport links, says Wyness
Wyness told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “The road, the rail links – that’s what is really needed around the current Old Trafford.
“And if you’re going to have a stadium of the size they’re talking about, 100,000 seats, it’s absolutely crucial the transport links are there.
“There needs to be improvements between the city centre, the airport, the tram, the bus links.
“It’s got to be planned and executed properly, otherwise the whole stadium is a no-go.
“That’s what needs improving and I hope it is being worked on – it would be a great benefit.
“We’ve been struggling with HS2 for some time now, and this new stadium could go some way to restimulating the connection between Birmingham and Manchester.
“If part of the cost of that could be borne by Man United, it’s a way for them to be seen politically as the good guys.”
In other news, United handed Adrien Rabiot boost after talks latest.
For more Man United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.