By Chris O'Brien
November 22 2005

Charlton Athletic F.C want Manchester United supporters banned from future games at their Valley Stadium. Incidents during Saturday's 3-1 victory in London have prompted the club to seek a permanent ban of away fans for future games against the Red Devils.

Charlton Athletic want Manchester United supporters banned from their Valley Stadium. Incidents at the South-London ground on the weekend have prompted club officials to call for the Red Army not to be allowed back.

It has been revealed that a male supporter sexually assaulted a female steward and spent the evening in custody after being evicted from the stadium. There were also reports of fans attempting to gain access to the pitch after Ruud Van Nistelrooy's superb strike gave United a two-one lead. This resulted in another steward being injured and the stand picking up damage.

Charlton chief executive Peter Varney said: "We would like to thank those United fans who witnessed the assault, and made statements to the police. Following Saturday's game, the club feel we have little alternative but to refuse to sell tickets to Manchester United fans for future games at The Valley"

For a ban to take place, the Addicks need support from the Premier League and are expected to present their case shortly. However, MUFC have insisted they will stand by their supporters and fight any suspension that could come into place.

"We will be seeking the views of the FA Premier League once the post-match safety report and the referee's report have been taken into account," said a United spokesman. "While we share the concerns over the incidents in question, we do not believe it is right to punish all of our fans for the alleged actions of a few."

Red Army!