Ratcliffe and INEOS decide against “highly-controversial” move that sparked fan anger – report

Manchester United have decided against cutting the £40,000 budget of their disabled supporters’ association.

Towards the end of last year, it was reported that United were considering slashing the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association’s budget.

It was indicated that the club was contemplating this move as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures since he became co-owner and assumed the day-to-day running of the Red Devils from the Glazers 12 months ago.

United enlisted the services of corporate restructuring firm Interpath Advisory to oversee a major cost-cutting drive that resulted in around 250 staff members being made redundant.

Corporate credit cards of senior executives were cancelled while Sir Alex Ferguson’s multi-million-pound ambassadorial contract was also terminated.

Other brutal measures taken by Ratcliffe over the past few months include axing the staff Christmas party and replacing the usual £100 Christmas bonus with a £40 Marks & Spencer voucher.

According to the Daily Mail, United have opted against cutting MUDSA’s budget.

“In November, we revealed how bosses were considering slashing the £40,000 they hand to the group in half amid a series of cost-saving measures.”

“However, it can now be disclosed that they have now decided against what would have been a highly-controversial move.”

It’s understood that this money is spent on hosting events and a bowling day for the group.

The Christmas party, in particular, is a popular annual event which sees many of the players attend and sign autographs for those present.

MUDSA – one of the oldest disabled supporters’ associations in the country – had long been run by Chas Banks MBE, who passed away in October at the age of 74.

The much-loved Banks was a passionate advocate for disabled rights.

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