Manchester United ‘set to hold safe standing trials at Old Trafford when Premier League returns’

Manchester United reportedly remain keen to carry out safe standing trials at Old Trafford when the Premier League season recommences. 

The club were locked in productive talks with Trafford council over testing rail seating at the historic 76,000 capacity ground, and planned to introduce the section during the course of the current campaign.

According to Sky Sports, United still intend to push ahead with the proposal – although the trials would depend on the government lifting the current coronavirus restrictions.

It is believed that both parties are still interested in carrying out the tests, but are aware that the escalating pandemic may scupper the plan. 

The trials would also require full co-operation from a number of supporters, which would not be possible with the social distancing measures put in place to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.

The introduction of rail seating would allow fans to stand against a barrier during games, which would raise hopes that safety at the venue could be increased in that particular section.

Top flight games may take place this summer in order to ensure the season is played to a finish, but uncertainty surrounds whether crowds would be able to attend.

Government restrictions may keep supporters away from the remaining fixtures, largely depending on how the country fares in the battle against coronavirus. 

However, if games are not contested behind closed doors, then United and the local council are in agreement over the seating trials.

Premier League rivals Tottenham and Wolves have already introduced rail seating at their grounds, and Celtic also have a section dedicated to safe standing at Parkhead.