Man U fans face uphill struggle

MANCHESTER United fans can do little to prevent Malcolm Glazer taking control at Old Trafford, according to the City's takeover rules.

Fans own about 18% of their beloved club and have given Glazer's £800m takeover approach a chilly reception.

Supporters have been urged to buy up more shares to block any deal. But Glazer, who has 19.2% of Man U, needs only 50% of the company plus one share to succeed with his takeover.

The support of Irish duo JP McManus and John Magnier, who own 29%, will be pivotal. Analysts reckon they will sell if Glazer offers more than £3 a share.

Fans believe they can stave off Man U's delisting by rejecting an offer when it eventually materialises. But UK listing rules allow Glazer to cancel shares anyway.

Meanwhile, Arsenal scored with a £100m stadium sponsorship deal from Chelsea's current backers Emirates, whose logo will also replace mmO2's on the team's shirts.

North London rival Tottenham Hotspur posted a £9.7m profit before player transfers.