Coronavirus: Manchester United to turn Old Trafford blue to show support for NHS

Gesture of appreciation for healthcare workers will coincide with Thursday’s weekly clap for carers

Manchester United will light up Old Trafford in blue and use the club’s sign to spell out ‘NHS United’ to coincide with Thursday’s weekly clap for carers.

The act is part of the club’s continued efforts to support those affected by the coronavirus pandemic, with more than 3,500 club gifts recently delivered to health workers alongside the use of their 16-vehicle fleet for courier work.

A statement read: “Old Trafford will be lit up in blue tonight with our famous Manchester United sign spelling out ‘NHS United’ in tribute to NHS workers across the UK. It will coincide with the nation’s weekly Thursday night 8pm ‘clap for carers’.

“While Old Trafford is not normally bathed in blue, it’s been organised to recognise the extraordinary efforts of the frontline workers battling the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The club's foundation is also working with the children of key workers while medical equipment has been donated to Salford Royal.

Old Trafford has also been placed on a reserve list as a possible temporary blood donation centre.

Club captain Harry Maguire, who was instrumental in the formation of #PlayersTogether – a charitable fund created by Premier League players to support the NHS - has also set up a food distribution network in his hometown of Mosborough, Sheffield.