MANCHESTER, May 17: Manchester United have postponed plans for a homecoming parade should they capture the Champions League trophy after violence flared in the city following the UEFA Cup final.

United face Chelsea in Moscow on Wednesday and were due to parade through the city streets on Thursday if they had been crowned European champions.

But mindful of last week’s troubles when Rangers fans ran rampant after their loss to Zenit St Petersburg in the UEFA Cup final, city councillors, police and United officials decided to postpone the celebrations for a couple of months.

“Manchester City Council, Trafford Council, Greater Manchester Police and Manchester United are working together to identify suitable opportunities to celebrate United’s achievements this season,” said a joint statement.

“Any event would take place during the summer.

“Given the necessary logistical demands to ensure security and safety, there will not be a parade immediately following the UEFA Champions League Final next week.”—AFP