Manchester United news: Red Devils slammed for partnership with taxi firm Uber to have pick-up point outside Old Trafford
As part of the club’s new commercial deal, a special 'Uber Zone' will be installed at the ground... but fans do not like their questionable track record
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MANCHESTER UNITED have struck a deal with Uber to provide a dedicated pick up off point for fans at Old Trafford... and supporters are not happy.
As part of the club’s latest commercial partnership, a special "Uber Zone" will be installed somewhere around the ground - and could be in place by the end of the season after fan consultation.
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People use the firm’s phone app to book a taxi and pay for it via their bank account, without any cash ever changing hands - and it has become hugely popular across the nation.
United's press release called it a "convenient and safe way for all fans to travel to and from games, with just a few taps of their smartphone."
And United’s group managing director, Richard Arnold commented: “Manchester United is always looking at ways in which we can improve our fans’ experience and our relationship with Uber will allow us to do this in new and exciting ways."
Uber also want to offer fans in over 30 countries "behind-the scenes content, bringing fans together on match days wherever they are watching, and sending riders and drivers to the club’s famous Theatre of Dreams."
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But the move has been met with scepticism from Manchester taxi businesses - while the company has been accused of aggressive business practices and employing their drivers on zero-hours contracts.
Zeeshan Ali, a taxi driver and spokesman for the Greater Manchester Drivers Forum, said: "With all the congestion around the ground on match days it would be very difficult for drivers.
"They might have to wait for a while before the end of the game if they had a booking, it would be difficult.
"I think the fans will just carry on with how they usually get home, I don’t think it will appeal to drivers."
While fans are not happy after regular tales of tax-dodging, driver incidents and breakdowns - here are some of the most angry responses: