Glazer appeals to fans

Malcolm Glazer today appeared to court Manchester United fans as he confirmed he may launch a takeover offer for the club.

The billionaire, who increased his stake in United to 16.31 per cent last week, released a statement to the Stock Exchange after coming under City pressure to declare his intentions.

Glazer, 75, moved to reassure the United faithful that he was a 'long-time and enthusiastic supporter' of the club.

This stance is in stark contrast to the strategy of John Magnier and JP McManus, the club's largest shareholders.

The Irish racing tycoons have angered fans by raising questions about transfer policy and because of Magnier's row with Sir Alex Ferguson over the racehorse Rock Of Gibraltar. Fan groups have threatened to disrupt the Irishmen's racing business.

Glazer seemed to back Ferguson in a statement which said: 'The Malcolm Glazer Family Partnership is a longtime and enthusiastic supporter of Manchester United.