01/11/2013

New MUFC CEO Ed Woodward has asked for a meeting with MUST

It probably hasn't quite gone the way he envisaged it with a baptism of fire following the summer transfer window but new CEO Ed Woodward has wasted no time showing he means to ring the changes and reach out to fan groups. He has invited MUST to meet and we're scheduled to do so in mid-November.

The excellent interview in UWS (part 2 to come in next issue) is very encouraging as is feedback from IMUSA. 

Ownership remains the elephant in the room and whatever comes out of initial discussions we'll remain independent and continue to highlight issues where we see things going wrong for MUFC and supporters.  We are committed to our long term goal of fan ownership but it'd be foolish, and a failure to our membership, not to look for win-wins in the short term too, while building towards a transition of ownership in the future

An example of the potential positive movement came when MUST revealed Ed Woodward's reaction to a question (from a MUST member) on the Fans' Forum with regard to Safe Standing. His enthusiastic, positive response surprised those present and triggered media interest which is adding to momentum on this crucial debate for many matchgoing fans. MUST will continue to pursue this as we believe supporters should have the right to a choice over standing and those who prefer to sit should not have their view obscured by others standing in front of them.

MEN: United would consider safe standing at Old Trafford

Independent: Manchester United to consider return of standing areas at Old Trafford

We look forward to an equally open and positive attitude to discussions on all key areas including the future ownership of the club and how fans can participate in a meaningful way. The proof of the pudding will be in the eating of course.