'Man Utd don't want fans, they want customers'

[Getty Images] Manchester United fans have reacted with fury after "thousands" had their season-ticket accounts restricted. The action follows an attempt by the club to identify potential ticket touts and those breaking the club's ticketing terms and conditions. But supporters have told BBC Sport that those who have been informed their season tickets are now at risk of being revoked include many of the club's most loyal followers, and insist that the majority have done nothing wrong. "I feel angry about it - they just want us gone," Andy, a season ticket-holder for more than 35 years, who was informed his account has been restricted on Monday night, told BBC Sport. "My dad has been a season ticket-holder since 1974, when we were in the Second Division, and going to the matches is our bond. Things like that are what keep older people alive sometimes." Manchester United declined to comment on the process or fan reaction when asked to do so. As it stands, those under suspicion have had restrictions placed on their online accounts, preventing them from buying and transferring tickets. Those whose accounts have been flagged have been asked to submit evidence to the club to defend themselves, if they feel they have been wrongly accused. United have not revoked any tickets so far - and an appeals panel will make a final decision on each case before their Premier League season begins on 22 August. The club conducted a crackdown on touting last season, cancelling 22,000 tickets for the first five home games of the season. They regard that figure as "the tip of the iceberg" and believe about 10-15% of season tickets are controlled by touts. "They have already taken my season ticket money," Andy said. "They don't care about how it affects people, their relationships, maybe their health and mental health. There is no empathy. "I feel like people are punished for their loyalty. They don't want fans, they want customers." Read the full article here