FC United given League go-ahead

By Chris Bevan

FC United hope to play at Droylsden's Butcher's Arms Ground

The new football club set up by disillusioned Manchester United fans has been accepted into the North West Counties League for next season.

FC United of Manchester will join the Second Division of the competition and play at Droylsden FC's Butcher's Arms Ground, subject to council approval.

The Conference North side have a stadium with a capacity of 3,500.

FC United are currently interviewing potential managers and will hold an open trial for players on 26 June.

More than 2,600 Manchester United fans fighting Malcolm Glazer's takeover have already pledged money and help to FC United.

Droylsden's owner and manager, Dave Pace, is a lifelong Red Devils fan who was keen to help his fellow supporters.

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He told BBC Sport: "I've done everything I can and it looks like they are going to be playing at our ground.

"It's hard to say how it will go. The fans feel like they want to do something to counteract Glazer and it could work.

"It's a stand and all credit to them. It is hard to run a club - and they will find that out - but they are determined and they seem to have backing from quite a few, so good luck to them.

"I'm trying to do my bit. I interviewed a couple of managers and pointed the club in the right direction because they didn't really know the non-League scene.

"I'm helping them all I can and will continue to do so.

"The managers they are talking to have a good idea of the players at this level and who they want to get hold of.

"If they struggle to get players I'll probably lend them a couple of mine."