Liverpool’s trip to Manchester United has been postponed due to fan protests.
Supporters of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side gathered outside Old Trafford at around 1pm on Sunday to protest at their ownership by the Glazer family.
Several hundred managed to force their way into the stadium via the East Stand gates and ventured onto the pitch to make their feelings known.
Although the United fans left the field, referee Michael Oliver was reportedly denied entry to Old Trafford due to security concerns ahead of the clash.
The Premier League champions were understood to have been told by Greater Manchester Police that the game was still set to kick off as planned.
However neither team’s coaches had arrived an hour ahead of the scheduled 4.30pm start, which heightened concerns about the fixture going ahead.
League chiefs later confirmed that the start time had been pushed back before taking the decision to postpone on account of the security breaches.
“This is a collective decision from the police, both clubs, the Premier League and local authorities,” read a Premier League statement.
“The security and safety of everyone at Old Trafford remains of paramount importance.
“We understand and respect the strength of feeling but condemn all acts of violence, criminal damage and trespass, especially given the associated Covid-19 breaches.
“Fans have many channels by which to make their views known, but the actions of a minority seen today have no justification.
“We sympathise with the police and stewards who had to deal with a dangerous situation that should have no place in football.”
Liverpool said they were in ‘full agreement’ with the league’s decision to postpone the highly-anticipated match due to the safety concerns.
“It is our position that public safety must be the number one factor in any such decision, with the ability to provide a secure environment for the participants, staff and officials being a particular priority,” said a club spokesman.
“It was clearly not possible for this to be guaranteed today due to a situation which escalated rapidly.
“We will continue to have dialogue with Manchester United, the Premier League and the local authorities to find a suitable date to reschedule.
“As soon as we have this information we will update our supporters accordingly.”