Man United issue statement after legend's wife complains about seat change

Whiteside remains the Red Devils youngest ever goalscorer, aged 17 years and eight days, having emerged from the club's youth ranks in 1982.

The Northern Ireland international went on to make 278 appearances across seven years at Old Trafford, netting 67 goals.

His wife, Denise, recently hit out at the club on social media platform X after his long-standing season-ticket was relocated.

She said: "So, it doesn't matter how long you've been a loyal supporter. Doesn't matter if you played for your club, @ManUtd can just dump you from your seat when they feel like it, so they can expand exec seating! Absolute disgrace!

"I'd like to make clear that this post is not just about Norman. There are a whole block of loyal supporters who expressed their views to me at the West Ham game, but they feel as if they have no voice or platform to voice their anger."

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Whiteside has been a platinum season-ticket holder for 25 years and has worked in an ambassadorial role for Man United.

United have since issued a statement explaining hospitality seats in the Stretford End are being removed and, therefore, they will find them 'alternative seats'.

It read: "We have the greatest respect for Norman as a legend of the club, and understand the disappointment caused to him and other season ticket holders by seat relocations.

"These happen for various reasons, including, next season, the moving of matchday hospitality seats into consolidated blocks to address fan concerns about them being dispersed around the stadium.

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"Other changes next season include the removal of hospitality seating from the Stretford End and installation of further rail seating in the North-West Quadrant, bringing benefits to many fans but also causing some disruption.

"No additional hospitality seats are being created at the expense of season ticket-holders - in fact hospitality seating will reduce by more than 500 next season. We are committed to working with all season ticket-holders affected by relocations, including Norman, to find them the best possible alternative seats elsewhere in the ground."

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During his career, Whiteside broke Pele's record as the youngest player to appear at a World Cup.

After leaving Old Trafford, he went on to sign for Everton for £600,000, but eventually retired due to knee problems aged 26.