How Man Utd marked the death of Queen Elizabeth II ahead of Europa League game vs Real Sociedad

Manchester United marked the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday, ahead of their Europa League clash with Real Sociedad.

The match took place just under an hour and half after the news was announced, with the club moving quickly to confirm the game would still take place.

“Following direction from the FA and UEFA, tonight’s UEFA Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad will take place as planned at Old Trafford,” Unitd said via a statement.

“A minute’s silence will be held before kick-off which will allow the teams, match officials and everyone in attendance to pay their respects to Her Majesty, The Queen. Both teams will wear black armbands and the flags at Old Trafford will fly at half-mast as a sign of our utmost respect.

“Manchester United shares the sorrow of the entire nation following the announcement from Buckingham Palace on the passing of Her Royal Highness The Queen Elizabeth II,” they added.

“The club recognises her immense contribution to public life, including sport, both here in the United Kingdom, across the Commonwealth, and around the world.

“Everyone connected with Manchester United joins the wider football family in sending our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to The Royal Family.”

In addition, there was a minute’s silence ahead of the Sociedad game, with black billboards round the side of the pitch in the Queen’s honour.

The usual adverts were removed, while the pre-match introductions were mooted.

There was no pre-match music which typically accompanies the warm-ups, while the flags on top of the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, which are flown to represent every nationality in the United squad, were removed.

In the press conference room, all sponsor logos were covered with a white sheet. Televisions on the concourse also showed BBC News’ coverage, rather than MUTV’s usual build-up, and the club’s social media output was vastly reduced as a sign of respect.